MI  N 


UTES^ 


OF    TUB 


FORTIETH  ANNUAL  CONVENTIOM 


OF    THE 


EVANCt.  LUTHERAN  SYNOD 


A5rc* 


M  I  N  I  S  T  E  R  I  U  M 


NORTH    CAROLINA 


23  a  1 1 1  ju  0  V  e : 

PRINTED     AT    THE    PUBLICATION    ROOMS. 
NO.    7,    SOUTH     LIBERTY   STREET. 


MINUTES 


OF    THE 


FORTIETH  ANNUAL  C0NV1']NTI0S 


OF    THE 


EVANG.  LUTHERAN  SYNOD 


AND 


M  I  N  I  S  T  E  R  I  U  M 


OF 


NORTH    CAROLINA 


33  a  1 1  ( m  0  V  e : 

PRINTED     AT    THE    PUBLICATION    ROOMS 

KO.    7,    SOUTH     LIBERTY    8TRKKT. 

"1846." 


MIN  UTES 


EVANTt.  LUTHERAX  synod  &  MINISTERIUM 

OF 

NORTH  CAROLINA. 


In  accordance  with  the  27th  Resolution  of  the  39th  annual 
convention  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Synod  of  North  Caroli- 
na, the  ministerial  members  with  their  lay  delegates  assembled 
on  the  1st  day  of  May,  1846,  in  Union  church,  5  miles  South- 
East  of  Salisbury,  N.  C.  At  10  o'clock  A.  M.,  the  exercises 
of  the  Synod  were  opened  with  a  sermon  by  the  President,  Rev. 
J.  D.  Scheck,  from  1  Tim.  iv.  16. 

Divine  service  being  concluded,  an  intermission  was  given  ; 
after  which  the  President  called  the  Synod  to  order,  and  open- 
ed the  first  session  with  singing  and  prayer. 

The  Secretary  then  called  the  roll,  noting  the  absentees, 
which  is  as  follows  : 

ORDAINED  MINISTERS. 


v.  Carolina. 


JV 

'ames. 

Mdress. 

1. 

Rev. 

J.  D.  SCHECK, 

China  Grove,  Rowan  Co.  J 

2. 

li 

WxM.  ARTZ, 

Holt's  Store,  Orange  Co.y 

3. 

(I 

J.  B.  ANTHONY, 

Salisbury,  Roican  Co., 

4. 

(( 

SA\rL.  ROTHROCK, 

RockviUe,  Roican  Co., 

5. 

u 

BE\J.  AREY, 

Slatesville,  Iredell  Co., 

6. 

" 

JACOB  CRIM, 

JSIocksville,  Davie  Co., 

7. 

" 

W.  G.   HARTER, 

Concord,  Cabarras  Co., 

8. 

" 

J.  A.  LINN, 

RockviUe,  Roican  Co., 

LICENTIATES. 

9. 

Rev, 

.  J.  GRIESON,* 

Clnpps,  Guilford  Co., 

10. 

iC 

A.  GIUMES,* 

Wilkesboro',  Wilkes  Co., 

11. 

" 

J.  SWICEGOOD, 

Brownloicn,  Davidson  Co., 

» 

Absent. 

The  following  lay  delegates  then  presented  the  certificates  of 
their  appointment,  and  were  admitted  to  seats  : 
LAY  DELEGATES. 


I. 

Capt. 

J.  SLOOP, 

Fr 

om  Rev 

.  J.   D.    Scheck's  charge. 

2. 

(( 

J.  B.  LOW, 

u 

W.  Ariz's 

S. 

Mr. 

MICHAEL  DAVIS, 

<( 

J.  B.  Snlhomfs       " 

4. 

MAT.  BARRIER,  Esq. 

" 

S.  Rothrock's           " 

6. 

u 

FRANCIS  OSTWALD, 

n 

B.  .Prey's                 '' 

6. 

Col. 

J.  M.  SMITH, 

«' 

J.  Crim's                 " 

7. 

ALLEN  ROSE,  Esq. 

(C     , 

W.  G.  Harier's 

8 

ISAAC  RIBELIN,  Esq. 

(( 

J.  A.  Linn's             " 

The  President  then  read  his  official  report,  which  was  accept- 
ed, and  laid  on  the  table  for  further  consideration. 

PRESIDENT'S  REPORT. 
Dear  Brethren : 

Ik  the  providence  of  God  we  have  again  convened,  as  an  ecclesiastical  bo- 
dy, to  consult  together  relative  to  the  interest  of  that  branch  of  the  church 
of  Ch'rist  committed  to  our  care,  and  I  hope  we  have  come  here  under  a  live- 
]}'  sense  of  the  obligations  resting  upon  us,  to  discharge  faithfully  the  impor- 
tant duties  devolving  upon  us,  and  to  seek  not  our  own  praise,  but  lo  pro- 
mote the  glory  of  Him  who  "loved  us,  and  gave  himself  for  us.'' 

The  consiitution  by  which  we  are  governed,  makes  it  my  duty,  to  present 
vou  a  report  of  my  official  acts,  during  the  ecclesiastical  year  which  has  come 
to  a  close,  and  to  offer  such  recommendations  as  I  may  deem  worthy  your  at- 
tention. On  the  4th  Sabbath  in  July  last,  the  resolutions  adopted  by  the  Syn- 
od and  Ministerium,  relating  to  the  ordination  of  bro  Linn,  and  the  dedica- 
tion of  St.  Matthev*-'s  church,  were  carried  into  effect.  On  that  occasion, 
the  examination  of  bro.  Linn  having  been  sustained,  he  was  ordained  a  min- 
ister of  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  by  the  imposition  of  hands  and  prayer.  At 
the  same  time,  the  church  above  named,  was  dedicated  to  the  service  of 
God.  This  is  a  neat  and  convenient  house  of  worship,  and  speaks  well  for 
the  zeal  and  perseverance  of  the  people  by  whom  it  was  reared.  May  pastor 
and  people,  dwell  in  the  secret  place  of  the  Most  High,  and  abide  under  the 
sliadow  of  the  Almighty.  I  was  assisted  on  that  occasion  by  the  Secretarj- 
and  bro.  Arey.  In  January  last  I  gave  an  ad  interim  license  to  bro.  Fink, 
late  a  student  in  the  Theological  Seminary  at  Lexington,  S.  C,  with  a  view 
of  his  laboring  till  the  meeting  of  Synod,  in  the  churches  in  Davidson  coun- 
ty ;  but  I  regret  to  state,  that  he  did  not  long  continue  in  the  field  assigned 
hiin.  A  few  days  since  I  received  a  letter  from  him,  informing  me  that  he 
intended  to  connect  himself  with  the  South  Western  Virginia  Synod  at  its 
next  meeting,  and  assigning  as  a  reason  for  his  course,  that  the  want  of  min- 
isters in  that  section  was  greater  than  in  North  Carolina.  Strange  conclu- 
sion.    A  short  time  ago,  I  received  a  letter  from  bro.  Linn,  in  which  he  in- 


torms  n)e,  that  there  is  an  increase  of  piety  among  his  people,  and  that  one 
of  the  congregations  to  whom  he  minisiered,  is  engaged  in  building  a  new 
house  of  worship,  which  he  thinks  will  be  ready  for  dedication  during  the 
early  part  of  the  ensuing  summer. 

I  also  received  a  eointnunication  troni  bro.  Grimes,  apologizing  for  hit>  ab- 
sence from  Synod  ;  which  is  owing,  ho  says,  to  advanced  ago,  and  want  of 
the  necessary  means  wherewith  to  travel. 

During  an  interview  with  bro.  Arcy,  1  learned  from  him  that  his  prospects 
at  St.  Michael's  church,  were  more  encouraging  at  present  than  they  have 
been  for  several  preceding  years,  but  that  circumstances  of  a  peculiar  char- 
acter induced  him  to  dissolve  his  connection  with  St.  Paul's.  As  that  church 
constitutes  a  part  of  St.  iMiehael's  charge,  and  stands  in  regular  connection 
with  tliis  body,  I  recommend  that  bro.  Arey  be  respectfully  requested  to  fur- 
nish this  body  with  a  verbal  statement  of  the  nature  and  extent  of  the  diffi- 
culties existing  at  St.  Paul's,  as  well  as  the  manner  in  which  they  were  created. 

I  likewise  received  a  letter  from  Rev.  Mr.  Harter,  from  which  the  follow- 
ing is  an  extract :  "The  closing  Synodical  year  has  been  one  of  more  than 
usual  prosperity  in  my  churches.  The  growth  of  piety  in  my  congregations, 
though  not  rapid,  is  still  increasing.  It  may  not  (he  adds)  be  amiss  to  in- 
form you  that  I  have  received  and  accepted  a  call  as  pastor  of  a  congrega- 
tion formerly  under  the  care  of  the  Tennessee  Synod.'' 

In  my  own  charge  tliere  is  nothing  in  its  religious  condition  worthy  of  par- 
ticular attention.  The  public  services  of  the  sanctuary  are  well  attended — 
the  truth  is  well  receiued,  and  a  few  have  been  made  savingly  acquainted 
with  the  Saviour.  One  of  my  congregations  have,  during  the  past  year,  been 
engaged  in  building  a  new  house  of  worship,^ at  a  cost  of  nearly  4,000  dol- 
lars, which,  when  completed,  will  be  one  of  the  most  spacious  and  conveni- 
ent country  churches  in  Western  North  Carolina.  From  the  other  minis- 
ters, no  information  relating  to  their  charges  was  received. 

During  the  last  session  of  this  body,  a  resolution  w^as  adopted,  authorising 
the  President  to  open  a  correspondence  with  the  Directors  of  the  Theologi- 
cal Seminary  at  Lexington,  South  Carolina,  with  a  view  to  the  removal  of 
that  institution  within  the  geographical  bounds  of  this  Synod.  The  above 
resolution,  I  regret  to  say,  was  suppressed. 

A  friend  sent  me  a  copy  of  our  printed  proceedings  in  advance  of  those 
distributed  by  the  Secretary,  which  enabled  me  to  discover  the  omission  at 
an  earlier  date  than  I  otherwise  would  have  been.  Whereupon  I  immediately 
addressed  a  note  to  the  Secretary,  inquiring  into  the  cause  that  led  to  the 
above  suppression,  from  whom  I  received  the  following  reply  : 

"Yours  of  the  20th  inst.  came  to  hand  on  yesterday,  and  in  compliance 
with  your  request,  I  hasten  to  return  an  answer.  The  resolution  to  which 
you  refer  in  your  communication,  was  inlenlionnlhj  omiUed,  and  in  the  omis- 
sion of  it  I  acted  advisedly.  Tlje  brethren  generally  gave  it  as  their  deci- 
ded opinion,  that  the  suppression  of  said  resolution  would  be  more  conducive 
to  the  interest  of  the  church  generally,  than  its  appearance  on  the  face  of  our 
printed  minutes." 


6 

It  is  deeply  to  be  regretted  that  iii  this  instance  at  least,  the  Secretary  and 
his  advisers  should  have  lost  sight  of  ihe  14th  article  of  section  2d  of  chapter 
Istof  tlie  constitution  of  Synod,  which  requires  the  Secretary  to  keep  a  faith- 
ful and  accurate  account  of  a//  the  proceedings  of  Synod  and  Ministerium.  If 
the  resolution  was  so  highly  offensive  and  pregnant  with  such  dangerous  con- 
sequences to  the  interest  of  the  church,  as  seemed  to  exist  in  the  imagination 
of  a  few, — this  was  evidently  not  the  manner  in  which  the  subject  should 
have  been  disposed  of.  It  was  adopted  by  the  Synod,  and  the  Synod  alone 
had  a  right  to  rescind  it. 

I  have  adverted  to  this  subject,  for  the  purpose  of  directing  the  special  at- 
tention of  Synod  to  it,  with  the  hope  that  satisfactory  explanations  may  be 
given  to  those  who  consider  themselves  aggrieved. 

The  various  benevolent  institutions  of  the  day  will  claim  your  serious  at- 
tention and  prayerful  co-operation. 

The  circulation  of  tlie  Sacred  Scriptures,  of  Tracts,  and  the  Lntlieran  Ob- 
server, the  interest  of  Domestic  Missions,  Sabbath  Schools,  and  Special  Con- 
ferences, are  not  to  be  forgotten. 

Having  thus  noticed  such  subjects  connected  with  the  interest  of  the 
Church  as  my  constitutional  duty  required,  I  now  resign  the  trust  committed 
to  my  care,  accompanied  with  my  sincere  thanks  for  the  confidence  you  re- 
posed in  my  feeble  efforts  to  serve  you. 

I  now  close  my  official  duties  witli  the  humble  prayer,  that  the  Holy  Spir- 
it may  influence  and  direct  us  in  all  our  deliberations.     Amen. 

JOHN  D.  6CHECK,  President. 

The  Synod  being  now  duly  constituted,  proceeded  to  elect 
officers  for  the  ensuing  year,  which  resuked  as  follows  : 

Rev.  SAM'L.  ROTHROCK,  President. 
"     J.  B.  ANTHONY,  Secretary. 
Mr.  MATTHIAS  BARRIER,  Treasurer. 

No  Corresponding  Delegates  being  present,  the  reading  of 
the  Minutes  of  last  year  was  next  in  order  ;  when  it  was 

I.  Besolved,  That  the  reading  be  dispensed  with,  and  that 
they  be  referred  to  a  committee  to  report  any  unfinished  busi- 
ness of  the  same. 

Committee. — Revs.  J.  A.  Linn,  and  J.  Swicegood. 

Letters,  documents,  &c.,  designed  for  the  Synod    were  now 
called  for,  handed  in,  and  distributed  amongst  the  following 
COMMITTEES  : 

First  Committee. — Revs.  W.  Artz,  B.  Arey,  and  Mr.  M. 
Barrier. 


Second  Committee.— Revs.  W.  G.  Barter,  J.  Crim,  and  Mr. 
M,  Davis. 

Third  Comjni/tee.—Rev.  J.  D.  Scheck,  and  iMessrs.  J.  M. 
Smith,  and  Allen  Rose. 

Fourth  Committee.— Rev.  J.  Crim,  and  Messrs.  J.  Ribelin, 
and  F.  Ostwald. 

Fifth  Committee.— Rqy.  B.  Arey,  and  Messrs.  J.  Sloop,  and 
J.  B.  Low. 

Sixth  Committee.— Revs.  J.  Swicegood,  J.  A.  Linn,  and  Mr. 
M.  Barrier. 

Seventh  Committee.— Ri^y.  J.  B.  Anthony,  and  Mr.  M.  Da- 
vis. 

The   parochial  reports  being  now  in  order  were  called  for, 
handed  in,  and  are  as  follows  : 


BAPTISMS 

— 

— 



S 

& 

t 

MINISTERS. 

s 

2: 
to, 

c 

& 

c 

< 

> 

2 

§• 

c 

3 

E 
£ 

6 

if. 

c 
o 

o 

s 

.5 

o 

5 

m 

.2 

3 

w 

o 
o 

"c 

i 

-O 

72 

2 

o 

V2 

1 

o 

Rev.  J.  D.  Scheck,      2 

60 

1 

26 

<; 

670 

49 

~ 

1 

— 

— 

"  W.  Artz,              4 

160 

"  J.  B.  Anthony,    2 

26 

22 

210 

1 

24 

5 

4 

0 

-20 

100 

9. 

"  S.  Rolhrock,     ,   2 

33 

4 

24 

550 

3S 

19 

9 

"   B.  Arey,                2 

JS 

1 

2 

140 

3 

"  W.  G.  Harler,    3 

40 

4 

36 

10 

379 

18 

7 

2 

15 

9fi 

1 

"  J.  Crim,             j   3 

3 

18 

95 

9 

"  J.  A.  Linn,       :  3 

25 

1 

21 

168 

13 

5 

3 

1 

— 



— 









__ 

21 

205 

11 

149 

12 

2272 

154 

36 

7 

6 

35 

196 

4 

3 

The  Treasurer  of  Synod  for  the  preceding  year,  Mr.  D.  Bar- 
ringer,  made  his  report  on  the  state  of  the  Treasury. 

IL  /Resolved,  That  a  committee  of  two  be  appointed  to  audit 
the  account  of  the  Treasurer  and  report  thereon. 

Committee.— Messrs.  J.  M.  Smith,  and  J.  B.  Low. 

'J'he  number  and  state  of  vacant  congregations  were  inquired 
mto.  Verbal  statements  were  made  by  several  of  the  breth- 
ren, but  inasmuch  as  there  were  communications  from  several 
vacant  churches,  the  further  consideration  of  the  subject  was 
deferred  until  after  the  committees  shall  have  reported. 


s 

III.  Resolved,  That  a  committee  be  appointed  to  receive  the 
contributions  for  Synod,  and  pay  them  over  to  the  Treasurer 
elect,  and  take  his  bond. 

Co?nmittee .—Messrs .  A.  Rose,  and  J.  Ribeiin. 

The  delegate  to  the  General  Synod,  Rev.  B.  Arey,  made  his 
report,  which  is  as  follows : 

Report  No.  1. 

The  delegate  from  this  body  to  the  last  General  Synod,  would  respectfully 
report,  that  he  attended  said  meeting,  and  was  fraternally  received  by  that 
body.  The  meeting  was  unusually  large  and  interesting,  and  was  conduct- 
ed with  great  harmony  and  friendship,  exhibiting  a  high  regard  for  the  inter- 
ests of  Christ's  kingdom  in  general,  and  especially,  for  that  part  over  which 
they  have  been  placed  as  stewards. 

The  particular  items  of  business  transacted  by  said  body  claiming  the  at- 
tention of  this  Synod,  are  perhaps  the  following: 

1st.  The  plan  of  Christian  Union.  This  should  be  a  matter  of  deep  inter- 
est to  this  body,  and  one  which  should  receive  our  hearty  co-operation.  It 
is  a  laudable  and  praiseworthy  cause.  2d.  The^"  subject  of  a  new  Liturgy 
which  will  be  found  under  the  26th  Resolution  of  the  Minutes  of  General 
Synod.  3d.  The  Minister's  Fund  established  by  the  Book  Company  in  Bal- 
timore, the  interest  of  which  is  to  be  paid  to  the  General  Synod  for  their 
disposal ;  has  for  its  object  the  alleviation  of  disabled  Ministers  or  the  wid- 
ows and  orphans  of  such  as  have  died  in  indigent  circumstances.  Its  claims 
should  be  responded  to  by  the  whole  church.  Lastly,  we  would  especially 
invite  the  attention  of  this  body  to  the  Home  Missionary  Society.  This  is 
a  cause  in  which  the  whole  church  should  feel  deeply  concerned.  Its  object 
is  to  supply  the  destitute  portions  of  our  church  in  the  United  States  with 
the  preached  gospel.  Especially  should  this  Synod  lend  a  helping  hand  in 
this  noble  cause,  for  there  is  perhaps  no  Synod  according  to  its  numbers  cov- 
ers a  large  field  of  Missionary  ground  than  that  of  North  Carolina.  "^ 

These  with  many  other  considerations  of  not  less  importance  might  claim 
the  attention  of  this  Synod  ;  but  as  the  Minutes  of  the  General  Synod  have 
been  appropriately  referred,  we  hope  the  committee  whose  duty  it  is  to  ex- 
amine that  document  will  be  able  to  give  the  subjects  a  full  investigation,  and 
in  their  report  offer  such  recommendations  and  resolutions,  as  in  view  of  the 
importance  of  the  case,  may  meet  the  approbation  of  this  Synod,  and  do  jus- 
tice to  the  objects  themselves. 

Your  delegate  would  further  state,  that  he  had  the  pleasure  of  seeing  and 
conversing  with  brethren  from  every  part  of  our  beloved  Zion,  from  wiiich, 
it  appears  to  be  in  a  most  flourishing  condition.  All  that  is  necessary  to 
commend  our  church  to  the  consideration  of  all  men,  is,  we  think,  to  make 
it  known — explain  its  principles  and  doctrines,  and  it  will  be  loved  and  sus- 
tained. 


9 


In  conclusion,  I  cannot  too  forcibly  urge  upon  this  body  the  great  impor- 
tance of  endeavorinjj  to  liave  at  all  times,  a  full  clerical  and  lay  representa- 
tion in  each  meeting  of  the  General  Synod.  If  we  wish  to  keep  up  the  good 
feeling  which  now  exists  between  the  General  Synod  and  the  church  in  the 
South,  it  is  all  important  that  we  be  ecjually  and  fully  represented  at  every 
meeting  of  said  body.  The  next  meeting  oJ  the  General  Synod  will  be  held 
in  the  city  of  JXew  York,  on  Saturday  succeeding  the  i.'d  Thursday  of  May, 
1848. 

All  of  which  is  respectfully  submitted, 

BENJ'N.  AREY. 

Adopted. 

IV.  Resolvedy  That  the  above  report  be  adopted. 

Brother  Arey  made  a  statement  of  his  deficit  over  and  above 
what  he  received  to  meet  his  expenses,  from  the  General  Syn- 
od ;  whereupon  it  was 

Ordered,  That  he  be  allowed  $5  additional  pay. 

Rev.  W.  G.  Harter  then  made  a  verbal  statement  of  his  visit 
to  the  Synod  of  South  Carolina,  and  of  the  fraternal  manner  in 
which  he  was  received  by  that  body,  and  of  the  prosperous 
state  of  the  church  within  the  bounds  of  that  Synod.  He  sta- 
ted that  the  Rev.  N.  Aldrich^^^  had  been  elected  as  delegate  to 
this  body. 

Ordered,  That  the  Treasurer  pay  Rev.  W.  G.  Ilarter  $10  48 
travelling  expenses  to  the  Synod  of  South  Carolina. 

Ordered,  That  the  former  Secretary  receive  $1  10  on  ac- 
count of  postage. 

Ordered,  That  Rev.  J.  D.  Scheck  receive  87^  cents  on  ac- 
count of  postage. 

The  report  of  Treasurer  of  Centenary  Fund  was  presented 
and  referred  to  a  committee  for  examination. 

Committee. — Rev.  B.  Arey,  and  Mr.  J.  B.  Low. 

The  Rev.  W.  Artz,  delegate  to  the  Western  Virginia  Synod. 
reported. 

*J^ole. — Since  the  meeting  of  Synod,  a  letter  has  been  shown  me  from  this 
brother,  which  he  intended  should  reach  liere  before  Synod  ;  in  which  he  of- 
fers the  following  excuse  for  non-attendance : — "Such  is  the  state  of  rcligi- 
gious  feeling  in  my  congregation  that  I  deem  it  imprudent  to  absent  myself. 
The  Lord  has  begun  to  cheer  our  hearts  with  refreshing  showers  of  divine 
grace.  Prayer  meetings  are  held  amoncf  my  people  every  day  in  the  week* 
and  the  good  Lord  has  blessed  them  to  the  awakening  of  some,  and  the  con- 
version of  others.  Secretary. 


10 

Report  No.  2. 

Your  delegate  to  the  South  Western  Virginia  Synod  of  the  Evangelical 
Lutlieran  ciiurcli,  would  stale  that  he  attended  the  last  annual  meeting  of 
that  Synod  ; — that  he  was  most  kindly  received,  and  participated  the  most 
cordial  friendship  of  the  brethren  ; — that  our  affairs  in  relation  to  the  divi- 
sion of  our  joint  Seminary  Fund  have  been  satisfactorily  and  finally  closed  ; 
and  that  to  reciprocate  the  friendship  of  this  body  and  to  keep  up  a  fraternal 
correspondence  between  their  Synod  and  the  Synod  of  North  Carolina,  which 
formerly  were  one,  a  ministerial  delegate  was  appointed  to  attend  the  pres- 
ent meeting  of  this  body. 

Respectfully  submitted, 

WM.  ARTZ. 
Adopted. 

V.  Resolved,  That  the  interest,  $23  83,  arising  from  Cen- 
tenary Fund  be  paid  to  the  Treasurer  of  the  Missionary  and 
Education  Society- 

Adjourned  to  Saturday  morning  9  o'clock. 

Prayer  by  br.  Swicegood. 

SECOND  SESSION. 
Saturday,  May  21,  9  o'clock  A.  M. 
Synod  met  according  to  adjournment  and  was  opened  with 
prayer  by  Rev.  J.  Scherer. 

The  minutes  of  yesterday  were  read  and  approved. 
The  Rev.  J.  Scherer,  corresponding  delegate  from  the  Wes- 
tern Virginia  Synod  having  arrived,  was  introduced  to  Synod, 
and  invited  to  a  seat  among  us,  and  a  participation  in  all  our 
deliberations. 

The  committee  on  document  marked  No.  1,  reported. 

Report  No.  3. 

The  committee  appointed  to  examine  the  President's  annual  report  have 
attended  to  the  duty  assigned  them,  and  beg  leave  to  direct  the  attention  of 
Synod  to  the  following  items: 

1st.  The  President's  recommendation  in  relation  to  bro  Arey's  resignation  of 
St.  Paul's  church,  and  the  unpleasant  state  of  things  existmg  there.  Your 
committee  recommend  the  appointment  of  a  committee  consisting  of  four 
ministerial  and  three  lay  members,  who  shall  meet  at  some  suitable  place  as 
soon  as  practicable  to  hear  the  statements  of  bro.  Arey,  and  any  other  per- 
sons that  may  be  concerned  in  the  unpleasant  affair  ;  to  propose  such  measures 
as  may  be  calculated  to  adjust  all  difficulties  and  differences,   and  to  restore 


11 

peace  and  harmony  in  the  coiicrrcgatiou,  and  among  the  parties  concerned, 
and  report  to  Synod  the  result  of  tlieir  meeting.  Wo  reconunend  that  the 
President  and  Secretary  of  Synod  attend  and  preside  over  this  meeting  as 
over  all  other  sessions  of  Synod. 

2nd.  With  regard  to  the  resolution  authorising  the  President  to  opcn,a  cor- 
respondence with  the  Board  of  Dircrtors  of  the  Soutii  CaroHna  Seminary 
with  a  view  of  changing  the  location  of  the  same  ;  which  resolution  was 
omitted  in  the  printed  minutes  of  last  year: — your  committee  rceoiumend 
that  the  Secretary  bo  called  upon  to  state  to  Synod  the  reasons  wliich  led 
him  to  suppress  said  resolution  in  plain  violation  of  the  duty  imposed  upon 
him  by  the  constitution  of  the  Synod,  which  requires  that  officer  to  keep  an  ac- 
curate and  entire  record  of  the  proceedings  of  Synod. 

3rd.  Your  committee  recommend  that  the  Rev.  A.  Grimes  be  excused  for 
not  attending  the  present  meeting  of  Synod  for  the  reasons  assigned. 

4th.  We  rccomuiend  thattlio  Report  iisamenrlod  he  appended  to  the  min- 
utes. Respectfully  submitted, 

WM.  ARTZ, 

B.  AREY, 

M.  BARRIER. 

Adopted. 

VI.  Resolved,  That  the  items  in  the  above  report  be  taken 
up  and  considered  separately. 

T\\e  first  item  was  then  read  and  adopted,  and  the  following 
committee  appointed. 

Revs.  J.  A.  Linn,  J.  Scherer,  J.  Crim,  and  J.  Swicegood, 
Messrs.  J.  M.  Smith,  J.  B.  Low,  and  M.  Davis. 

The  second  item  was  then  adopted,  and  the  Secretary  gave 
his  reasons  for  the  non-appearance  of  the  resolution  on  the 
printed  Minutes,  but  stated  that  it  was  retained  on  the  record. 

The  third  item  was  then  taken  up  and  discussed,  but  before 
coming  to  any  decision  it  was  laid  over  for  future  consideration. 
..       The  fourth  item  was  then  considered,  and  it  was 
I       Vn.  Resolved,  That  Rev.  A  Grimes  be  excused  for  non-at- 
tendance at  this  meeting  of  Synod. 

The  further  consideration  of  the  report  was  then  deferred  for 
the  present. 

The  committee  appointed  to  settle  with  the  Treasurer  of  last 
year  made  their  report. 


$67 

93^ 

68 

053 

$125 

9£i 

$   6 

621 

11 

15 

25 

S9 

00 

$bl 

021 

$68 

96,^ 

12 
Report  No.  4. 

The  committee  appointed  to   settle  with   David  Barringer,  Esq.  former 
Treasurer  of  this  Synod,  beg  leave  to  make  the  following  report; 
To  cash  remaining  in  the  Treasury  last  year, 
Contributions  received  at  last  Synod,         -         -         _         . 

Total, 
Paid  by  direction  of  Synod, 

To  Rev.  S.  Rothrock, 

"      "     W.  C.  Harter, 

"      "     J.  D.  Scheck, 

"      Bruner  &  James,  for  printing  minutes, 

Total  paid  out, 

Balance  in  the  Treasury, 
Your  committee  have  examined  the  above  report  and  find  it  correct. 

Jx\0.  M.  SMITH, 
JNO.  B.  LOW. 
Adopted. 

The  committee  under  the  20th  resolution  of  the  Synod  of 
last  3^eai%  appointed  to  propose  a  revision  of  the  constitution  of 
Synod,  made  their  report,  through  their  chairman,  Rev.  J.  B. 
Anthony,  which  was  accepted,  and  laid  on  the  table,  and  made 
the  special  order  of  the  day  for  Monday  morning  next. 

The  committee  appointed  to  audit  the  account  of  the  treasu- 
rer of  Centenary  Fund,  reported: 

Report  No.  5. 

Henry  Miller,  in  account  with  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Synod  of  North 
Carolina.  Dr. 

Received  at  the  meeting  of  Synod  at  Luther  Chapel,  Sept.  1842,  $21  52^ 

«•  "  "  "  Sandy  Creek,  -         -         31  90 

«  "  "  "  Concord,  May  1844,    -  114  75 

"  ««  *'  "  St.  Paul's,  "   1845,         -       155  2\\ 

Interest  added, 13  68 

$397   06J 
Interest  accruing  on  the  above,  May  4,  1846,        -        -        -  23  83 

H.  MILLER,  Treas.  of  Cent.  Fund. 

Adjourned  to  meet  again  on  Monday,  9  o'clock,  A.  M. 
Benediction  by  the  President. 


13 

After  an  intermission  of  about  ;J0  minutes,  a  large  congrega- 
tion being  present,  the  Rev.  W.  G.  Harter  preached  a  sermon 
from  2.  Pet.  iii,  14.  After  which  the  pastor,  Rev.  J.  B.  An- 
thony, admitted  12  persons  to  the  communion  of  the  church  by 
the  solemn  and  impressive  rile  of  confirmation. 

SABBATH  RELIGIOUS  EXERCISES. 

The  relio-ious  services  of  tlic  Sabbath  were  commenced 
with  a  sermon  by  the  I^ev.  Wm.  Artz,  from  Rom.  iii,  21:  Be- 
ing justified  freely  by  his  grace,  through  the  redemption  that 
is  in  Christ  Jesus.  Immediately  thereafter  the  sacrament  of 
the  Lord's  Supper  was  administered,  first  to  the  members  of 
Synod,  and  then  to  a  large  number  of  communicants.  After 
an  intermission,  the  Rev.  Jacob  Scherer  addressed  the  congre- 
gation from  1.  Pet.  ii,  2:  ^6*  new-born  babes,  desire  the  sincere 
milk  of  the  word  that  ye  may  grow  thereby.  In  the  evening, 
prayer  meetings  were  held  in  different  parts  of  the  neighbor- 
hood. 

THIRD  SESSION. 

Monday  morning,  May  4th,  184G. 

Synod  met  and  was  opened  with  religious  exercises  by  the 
President.  After  the  calling  of  the  roll,  the  minutes  of  Satur- 
day were  read  and  approved. 

The  President  gave  notice  that  the  business  which  had  been 
made  the  order  of  the  day  would  take  the  precedence.  An  ap- 
peal was  taken  from  his  decision  and  sustained.  The  report 
of  the  committee  upon  the  President's  report,  which  had  been 
laid  over  without  reference  to  time,  was  then  taken  up.  The 
:M  and  5th  items  not  having  been  acted  upon;  the  3d  was 
then  considered.  After  some  discussion,  the  following  resolu- 
tion was  adopted. 

VIII.  Besolved,  That  the  recommendation  in  the  3d  item  of 
the  committee  upon  the  President's  report,  be  stricken  out. 

The  5th  item  was  then  taken  into  consideration,  and  the  fol- 
lowing resolution  passed. 

TX.  Resolved,  That  the  words  "by  the  committee."  after  the 
word  amended,  in  the  5th  item,  be  stricken  out. 


14 

The  2d  iteiii  was  then  re-considered  and  the  following  reso- 
hition  passed. 

X.  Besolved,  The  Secretary  having  assigned  his  reasons  for 
the  omission  in  the  printed  minutes  of  the  resolution  authorizing 
the  President  of  the  Synod  to  open  a  correspondence  with  the 
Board  of  Directors  of  the  South  Carolina  Seminary,  on  the  sub- 
ject of  removing  that  institution  within  the  geographical  bounds 
of  this  Synod,  that  ahhough  he  considered  himself  as  acting  in 
accordance  with  the  view  of  some  of  the  brethren,  and  for  the 
best  interests  of  the  church ;  yet  this  Synod  do  not  deem  them 
satisfactory. 

The  report  as  a  whole  was  then  adopted. 

The  business  whic'i  had  been  made  the  order  of  the  day, 
viz :  the  report  of  the  committee  upon  a  revision  of  the  consti- 
tution of  Synod,  then  came  up.  The  proposed  amendments 
were  read  section  by  section,  and  carefully  compared  with  the 
constitution  as  it  now  is,  and  has  been  since  the  last  revision, 
and  each  section  adopted  separately.  The  first  chapter  was 
passed  over  in  this  way,  after  Avhich  the  Synod  adjourned  to 
Tuesday  morning.     Benediction  by  the  President. 

This  afternoon  the  Missionary  and  Education  Society  held  its 
anniversary,  the  proceedings  of  which  will  be  found  in  the  sub- 
sequent pages  of  the  minutes. 

FOURTH  SESSION. 

Tuesday  morning,  May  5th,  1846. 

Synod  was  opened  with  the  usual  religious  services  by  Rev. 
B.  Arey. 

After  calling  the  roll,  the  minutes  of  Monday  were  read  and 
approved. 

The  committee  on  the  revision  of  the  Constitution  of  Synod, 
proceeded  with  their  report,  beginning  at  the  2d  chapter,  and 
reading  section  by  section,  and  comparing  as  before  until  the 
whole  had  been  passed  over.  The  adoption  of  the  whole  re- 
port then  came  up;  whereupon  i:  was 

XI.  Resolved,  That  the  Constitution  as  amended  be  adopted 
as  the  Constitution  of  this  Synod. 


16 

The  committtee  No.  2  made  their  report  which  is  as  follows: 

Report  No.  G. 

Committee  No.  2  beg  leave  to  offer  tlio  following  report    upon   several 
communications  addressed  to  this  Synod. 

The  first  we  noiicc  is  a  letter  Ooni  Catawba  county,  with  fifiecn  sijrnatures. 
These  brethren  and  Iricnds  present  their  comnumication  in  the  form  of  a 
petition  to  this  Synod,  that  if  pussiblu,  a  minister  be  sent  to  break  unto 
them  the  bread  of  life — proniisinjj  that  tljey  will  contribute  to  his  support  and 
comfort,  as  much  as  their  ability  will  permit.  We  sympathise  with  our 
friends  in  Catawba,  and  earnestly  recomniend  their  destitute  situation,  to  the 
prayerful  consideration  of  Synod — and  if  possible,  some  arrangement  be 
made  to  supply  them  with  the  regular  services  of  a  minister  of  their  choice. 
A  second  communication  from  the  same  individuals  of  tlie  above  named 
county,  contains  a  petition  to  this  Synod  to  hold  its  next  annual  convention 
in  St.  Paul's  Church.  We  refer  this  sul)jcct  to  the  consideration  of  Synod 
when  the  choice  is  made  for  the  place  of  our  next  meeting. 

Lastly,  a  letter  from  the  Elders  and  Deacons  of  St.  John's  church,  Ca- 
barras  county,  presents  a  request  that  a  committee   be  appointed  to  assist 
their  pastor  in  the  dedication  of  their  new   house  of  worship,  as  soon  as  it 
shall  be  completed.     We  recommend  that  their  request  be  granted. 
Respectfully  submitted, 

W.M.  G.  IIARTER, 
JACOB  CRIM, 
MICHAEL  DAVIS. 
Adopted. 

The  committee  appointed  to  examine  the  minutes  of  last 
year  made  their  report. 

Bcport  No.  7. 

The  committee  to  whom  was  referred  the  duty  of  examining  the  minutes 
of  last  year,  have  considered  the  same,  and  submit  the  following  as  their 
Repoit: — 

Tiiey  find  that  by  the  8th  resolution  of  last  year's  minutes  a  committee 
was  created,  to  sell  or  present,  at  their  discretion,  to  members  of  Synod,  the 
books  bequeathed  to  this  body  by  the  late  Rev.  Stork. 

On  page  19th  they  find  that  the  consideration  of  the  subject  of  colporlage 
as  referred  to  in  Report  13,  was  deferred  until  the  present  mcetinfr  of  Synod. 
Your  committee  are  not  apprized  of  any  other  unfinished  business;  but 
would  respectfully  call  the  attention  of  Synod  to  the  above  particulars. 
Respectfully  submitted, 

JOS.  A.  LINN, 
JOHN  SWICEGOOD. 
Adopted. 


16 

The  books  referred  to,  being  in  the  German  language,  were 
then  distributed  by  the  committee  to  such  members  of  the 
Synod  as  could  read  them. 

The  subject  of  colportage  was  then  considered  and  the  fol- 
lowing resolution  adopted. 

XII.  Resolved,  That  we,  as  a  Synod,  hail  with  gratitude  to 
God,  the  interest  that  has  recently  been  manifested  by  the 
American  Tract  Society  for  the  German  population  of  this 
country,  and  particularly  the  colporteur  system,  as  wisely 
adapted  to  the  wants  of  our  churches,  and  we  hereby  pledge 
ourselves  to  co-operate  with  said  society  in  sustaining  and  car- 
rying forward  their  plans  to  bless  our  country  and  the  world. 

Committee  No.  3,  made  their  report  which  is  as  follows: 

Report  No,  8. 

The  committee  to  whom  were  referred  sundry  papers  for  examination, 
beff  leave  to  present  the  following  report : 

No.  1.  Is  a  letter  from  bro.  Grieson,  stating  his  inability,  in  consequence 
of  increasing  age  and  infirmity  to  attend  the  present  meeting  of  Synod  and 
respectfully  requests  that  the  apology  offered  for  his  absence  may  be  sus- 
tained.    Your  committee  recommend  that  he  be  excused. 

No.  2.  Is  a  petition  from  Sandy  Creek,  Beck's,  and  Pilgrim's  churches  in 
Davidson  county,  stating  that  the  Rev.  bro.  Crim  had  dissolved  his  pastoral 
connection  with  them,  and  ask  this  body  to  consider  their  destitution,  and  to 
supply  them  at  least  to  some  extent,  with  the  preached  word. 

No.  3.  Contains  an  invitation  from  the  Elders  and  Deacons  of  Organ 
church,  extended  to  this  body  to  hold  its  next  annual  meeting  in  said  church. 
Your  committee  recommend  that  above  named  church  be  put  in  nomination 
with  others,  when  the  place  of  tlie  next  meeting  of  Synod  shall  be  determined. 

No.  4.  Is  a  petition  from  St.  Paul's  church,  Iredell  county,  soliciting  min- 
isterial services.  As  St.  Paul's  church  forms  a  part  of  St.  Michael's  charge, 
and  bro.  Arey  being  the  pastor  of  said  charge,  your  committee  recommend 
the  reference  of  this  petition  to  the  ministerium. 

JOHN  D.  SCHECK, 
JNO.  M.  SMITH, 
ALLEN  ROSE. 

Adopted. 

The  treasurer  of  Seminary  Fund  reported. 
Xltl.  Resolved,  That  this  report  be  referred  to  a  committee 
for  examination.     Committee,  Messrs.  A.  Rose  and  J.  B.  Low. 


17 

Committee  No.  5  read  the  following  report : 
Report  No.  9. 

The  committee  to  whom  were  referred  tho  minutes  of  the  9Sth  session  of 
the  German  Evan.  Lutheran  Minister ium  of  Pennsylvania  and  adjacent 
States  ;  the  60th  session  of  the  niinistorium  of  the  State  of  New  York  ;  pro- 
ceedings of  a  Convention,  and  first  and  second  sessions  of  the  Evan.  Lutheran 
Synod  of  Miami  togetlier  with  the  constitution  of  the  same. 

The  Ministerium  of  Pennsylvania  and  adjacent  States,  convened  at  Read- 
ing, Berks  county,  Pa.,  during  Trinity  week,  from  the  18th  to  21st  of  May, 
1845.  There  are  counecled  with  this  Synod  56  ordained  Ministers,  and  7 
Licentiates. 

The  officers  are  Rev.  J.  Miller,  D.  D.,  of  Reading,  President,  Rev.  J. 
W.  Richards,  Secretary;  Rev.  J.  C.  Baker,  Treasurer.  They  report,  Con- 
gregations 224  ;  Baptisms  5,298  ;  Confirmations  2,545 ;  Communicants 
32,274;  Funerals  1,996  ;  Congregational  Schools  115;  Sunday  Schools  96  ; 
Contributions  to  Synodical  Fund  $166  80  cents  ;  Mission  in  general  $1,252 
46  cents.  Nothing  more  of  interest  to  this  body,  except  that  they  acknow- 
ledge the  reception  of  a  copy  of  our  minutes  for  May  3d,  1844. 

Next  are  the  minutes  of  Evan.  Luth.  Ministerium  of  the  State  of  N.  York, 
held  at  Alleghany,  (Rev.  H.  N.  Pohlman's  church,)  September  6th,  1845. 
This  body  is  composed  of  32  ordained  Ministers,  and  1  Licentiate. 

The  officers  are  Rev.  H.  N.  Pohlman,  President;  Rev.  J.  C  Duy,  Secre- 
tary: N.  W.  Goertner,  Treasurer.  They  report,  Congregations  41  ;  Bap- 
tisms of  Infants  1,366  ;  Adults  25  ;  Confirmations  417;  Admitted  54  ;  Com- 
municants 2,799  ;  Removed  74;  Deaths  of  Members  81  ;  Funerals  Attended 
402;  Sunday  Schools  32  ;  Teachers  258;  Children  Attending  2,066;  Cate- 
chumens 84.  The  contributions  not  being  added  up  we  have  omitted  them. 
This  Synod  has  most  decidedly  disapproved  of  and  condemned  the  two  ex- 
tremes into  which  the  present  age  seem  to  have  run  in  relation  to  Old  and 
New  Measures,  a  superstitious  veneration  for  antiquity  on  the  one  hand,  and 
a  fondness  for  novelty  on  the  other.  They  regard  it  as  the  true  policy  of 
the  Lutheran  Church,  for  each  pastor  to  adopt  such  measures  in  his  owr 
churches,  as  he  conscientiously  believes  to  be  consistent  with  the  Bible,  and 
likely  to  prove  useful.  They  have  also  acknowled^^ed  tho  reception  of  a 
copy  of  the  minutes  of  the  Synod  of  N.  Carolina,  convened  at  St.  Paul's 
Church,  Orange  county,  N.  C,  May  2d,  1845. 

Next  is  a  copy  of  proceedings  of  a  convention,  first  and  second  sessicfi/f  of 
the  Miami  Synod,  first  session  or  convention,  convened  at  Xenia,  Ohio, 
October  16th,  1844.  Second  session  convened  at  Dayton,  April  19th,  1845. 
At  the  convention  the  meeting  was  organized  by  appointing  Rev.  J.  Crig- 
ler.  Chairman,  and  Rev.  D.  P.  Rosenmiller,  Secretary.  There  were  present 
at  this  meeting  8  ordained  Ministers  and  3  Licentiates. 

Second  session  convened  at   Dayton,  Ohio,  April  19th,  1845.     Tho   offi- 
2 


18 

cers  of  this  Synod  are  Rev.  C.  F.  Schaeffer,  President ;  Rev.  D.  P.  Rosenmil- 
ler,  Secretary ;  Rev.  J.  Surface,  Treasurer. 

They  report,  Congregations  32  ;  Communicants  1,723  ;  Baptisms  of  In- 
fants 133  ;  Adults  43  ;  Confirmations  i54  ;  Admitted  22  ;  Expelled  6  ;  Bu- 
ried 40;  Sunday  Schools  10:  Prayer  Meetings  21;  Synodical  Contributions 
^50  99  cents ;  Missionary  Contributions  $19  25  cents.  Nothing  more  of 
importance  to  this  Synod,  only  that  they  also  acknowledge  the  reception  of 
a  copy  of  the  minutes  of  the  N.  Carolina  Synod,  held  at  Concord,  Cabarras 
county,  N.  C,  May  3d,  1844.  In  conclusion  your  committee  are  happy  to 
say,  that  the  brethren  composing  these  several  Synods,  seem  to  be  actively 
engaged  in  the  Master's  cause,  and  in  sustaining  and  carrying  forward  all 
the  benevolent  operations  of  the  day.  Your  committee  would  recommend 
this  body  to  favor  the  several  Synods  above  named,  with  copies  of  the  min- 
utes of  this  Synod,  and  express  our  best  wisiies  for  them,  and  the  promotion 
of  the  cause  which  they  so  ardently  desire  to  push  forward. 
Respectfully  submitted, 

BENJ.  AREY, 
JOHN  SLOOP, 
JNO.  B.  LOW. 

Adopted. 

Synod  then  adjourned  to  meet  again  at  one  o'clock. 

FIFTH  SESSION. 

Tuesday,  1  o'clock,  P.  M.  May  6th. 

The  religious  exercises  were  conducted  by  br.  J.  Swicegood. 

XIV.  Resolved,  That  a  committee  of  two  ministers  and  two 
lay-men  be  appointed  to  revise  the  conferential  districts  and 
report  thereon,  as  soon  as  convenient.  Committee.'— Rew. 
Messrs.  B.  Arey  and  W.  G.  Harter,  Messrs.  M.  Barrier  and 
J.  B.  Low. 

The  committee  appointed  under  the  1st  item  of  the  report  of 
the  committee  upon  the  President's  report,  submitted  the  fol- 
lowing : — 

Report  No.  10. 

The  committee  appointed  for  the  purpose  of  adjusting  the  difficulties  at 
present  existing  in  St.  Paul's  congregation,  in  Iredell  county,  and  to  pro- 
pose such  measures  as  may  be  calculated  to  promote  peace  and  harmony, 
beg  leave  to  submit  the  following  report : 

1st.  Your  committee  are  of  opinion  that  as  this  matter  has  not  been  regu- 
larly brought  before  this  body,  according  to  the  provisions  of  the  formula  of 
Discipline,  this  Synod  cannot  pass  any  decisive  action  upon  it. 

2d.  Your  committee  recommend  that  liie  individuals  who  may  be  irame- 


19 

dialely  concerned  in  this  matter,  hold  a  meeting  i^such  timo  and  place  aa 
may  suit  their  convenience,  with  a  view  to  an  amicable  adjustment  of  the 
differences  that  may  exist  among  them;  and  for  the  accomplishment  of  this 
desirable  object,  we  recommend  that  they  invite  several  ministers  and  pious 
lay-men  in  our  connection  to  attend  tlieir  meeting.  We  recommend  that 
br.  Arey  be  requested  to  appoint  this  meeting. 

JOSEPH  A.  LINN,  Cludrwan. 
Adopted. 

The  committee  on  documents  marked  No.  6,  reported. 

Report  No.  11. 

The  committee,  appointed  to  examine  documents  marked  No.  6,  would 
respectfully  report : 

1st.  Is  the  minutes  of  the  15th  annual  session  of  the  Flartwick  Synod  of 
the  Ev.  Lutheran  Church,  in  the  State  of  New  York,  which  convened  at 
Schagticoke,  June  7,  1845.  That  Synod  contains  17  Ministers;  25  Con- 
gregations; 241  infant,  and  17  adult  Baptisms ;  56  Confirmations;  3,187 
Communicants  ;  20  Prayer  Meetings,  and  26  Sunday  Schools.  The  officers 
are,  G.  A.  Lintner,  D.  D.,  President ;  David  Eyster,  Secretary,  and  Martin 
J.  Stover,  Treasurer. 

2d.  Is  the  proceedings  of  the  13th  Convention  of  the  General  Synod  of  the 
United  States,  which  convened  in  Philadelphia,  May  16,  1846.  There  were 
13  Synods  represented  in  this  body.  The  officers  are  Rev.  H.  N.  Pohlmau, 
D.  D.,  President ;  Prof  M.  Jacobs,  Secretary,  and  Dr.  D.  Gilbert,  Treasurer. 

Your  committee  find  several  things  in  the  proceedings  of  this  body  worthy 
our  attention.  On  page  29th,  the  attention  of  the  several  Synods  have  been 
directed  to  the  importance  of  maintaining,  each,  a  full  delegation  to  that 
body.  We  recommend  that  the  intention  of  the  resolution  be  carried  out 
by  us  in  future.  On  page  42d  your  committee  find  that  each  Secretary  of 
the  several  Synods  is  to  be  furnished  "with  a  revised  copy  of  the  Liturgy  for 
examination.  We  recommend  that  this  body,  when  furnished  with  a  copy 
of  the  above  Liturgy  give  our  delegates  all  necessary  instruction.  In  the 
language  of  the  50th  resolution,  we  earnestly  recommend  the  appointment 
of  the  first  Monday  in  January,  annually,  as  a  day  of  special  humiliation  and 
prayer. 

Your  committee  find  many  other  items  touching  the  best  interests  of  our 
beloved  Zion,  and  the  extension  of  Christ's  kingdom.  With  gratitude  to 
God  we  hail  the  increase  of  Christian  union,  and  general  benevolence  as 
manifested  in  that  body.  Deferentially  submitted, 

JOHN  SWICEGOOD, 
J.  A.  LINxV, 
M.  BARRIER. 

Adopted. 


20 

The  committee  oi|^ocuments  marked  No.  4  submitted  the 
following : — 

Report  No.  12. 

Your  committee  to  whom  was  referred  the  minutes  of  sister  Synods  beg- 
leave  to  report : 

No.  1.  Is  a  copy  of  the  minutes  of  the  Pittsburg  Synod.  This  copy  em- 
braces the  proceedings  of  two  meetings  of  tliis  infant  ecclesiastical  body. 
The  first  took  place  on  the  15th  Januafy,  1846.  The  convention  was  com- 
posed of  8  bishops  and  6  lay  delegates.  On  this  occasion  they  organized  the 
above  named  Synod. 

The  second  session  of  this  body  was  held  at  Shippensville,  Pa.,  June  5tb, 
1846.  At  this  meeting  they  numbered  8  bishops  and  6  licentiates.  The 
officers  are  bishop  M.  J.  Steck,  President ;  bishop  W.  A.  Passavant,  Secre- 
tary i»  and  G.  Weyman,  Treasurer.  The  parochial  report  presents  the  fol- 
lowing:— 50  Congregations,  12  of  which  are  vacant;  461  Baptisms;  3,473 
Communicants;  and  31  Sabbath  Schools.  There  is  a  Missionary  Society  in 
connection  with  this  body  which  indicates  that  these  brethren  are  zealously 
engaged  in  their  Master's  vineyard. 

iVo.  2.  Is  the  minutes  of  the  Synod  of  Western  Virginia  which  met  the  7th 
of  June,  1845.  They  number  8  ministers.  The  officers  are  Rev.  E.  Haw- 
kins, President;  Rev.  J.  A.  Brown,  Secretary;  and  Rev.  G.  Scherer,  Trea- 
surer. The  parochial  report  shows  20  Congregations  ;  104  Baptisms;  1,414 
Communicants  ;  12  Prayer  Meetings  ;  5  Sunday  Schools,  and  7  Temperance 
Societies. 

No.  3.  Is  a  copy  of  the  minutes  of  the  Maryland  Synod,  which  held  its 
last  meeting  in  the  city  of  Washington,  D.  C,  October  16th,  1845.  They 
number  28  Ministers  who  are  ordained,  and  3  Licentiates.  The  officers  are. 
Pi.ev.  J.  G.  Morris,  President;  Rev.  C.  Lepley,  Secretary,  and  Rev.  J.  P.  Cline, 
Treasurer.  Thefr  parochial  report  presents  the  following  pleasing  statistics  : 
Congregations  60  ;  Communicants  7,369  ;  Baptisms  989  ;  Sabbath  Schools, 
Lutheran  87;  Union  35. 

No.  4.  Is  the  minutes  of  the  Synod  of  South  Carolina.  They  number  26 
ordained  Ministers,  3  Licentiates,  and  8  Students.  The  officers  chosen  at  the 
last  meeting  are  Rev.  J.  C.  Hope,  President ;  Rev.  W.  Berley,  Secretary  ; 
Col.  W.  Caugliman,  Treasurer.  The  parochial  report  presents  the  follow- 
ing table  :  39  Congregations  ;  386  Baptisms;  2,952  Communicants,  and  24 
Sabbath  Schools. 

We  observe  in  these  minutes  that  our  brethren  are  zealously  engaged  in 
promoting  the  good  of  our  beloved  Zion,  and  in  extending  her  borders. 
They  are  much  interested  in  the  cause  of  missions,  from  the  respectable 
amounts  reported  :  and  in  that  of  Sabbath  Schools  from  the  great  number  of 


21 

Teachers  and  pupils  which  they  report.     May  the  Lord  forward  the  wheels 
of  tiie  gospel  chariot,  till  the  bright  dawn  of  millenial  glory  be  ushered  in. 
All  of  which  is  respectfully  submitted, 

JACOB  CRIM,  Chairman. 
Adopted. 

The  committee  appointed  to  receive   the  contributions  from 
Oie  churches,  then  read  the  following  as  their  report : — 

The  following  are  the  contributions  that  have  been  handed  in   to   your 
committee : 

From  Rev.  S.  Jiothrock's  Churches. 

Organ, $7  00 

St.  Stephen's, 2  50  — $9  50 

From  Rev.  J.  D.  Schcck's  Churches. 

St.  John's, 8  00 

Luther's  Chapel, 4  00  —12  00 

From  Rev.  JV.  Jlrtz's  Churches. 

Shoemaker's, 1  30 

Low's,     -         -         -         -         -         -         -         -  15  —   145 

From  Rev.  J.  B.  Anthony^ s  Churches. 
Salisbury,  or  St.  John's,        -        .        -        -  7  00 

Union, -       7  45  —14  45 

From  Rev.  W.  G.  Harter^s  Churches. 

St.  James', 3  50 

St.  Enoch's, 2  71i 

Bethel, 1  52i—  7  734- 

From  Rev.  J.  Ji.  Linii's  Churches. 
St.  Paul's, 2  00 

St.  Matthew's, 1  67^ 

Luther'5  Church,  * 70  —  4  37J 

From  Rev.  J.  Crim's  Churches. 

St.  Matthew's, 1  52 

Jerusalem,  _-...-  60 

Sandy  Creek, 1   12i—  3   14^ 

From  Rev.  B.  Arey's  Churches. 
St.  Michael's,       -  -        -        -         -  2  00  —  2  00 

From  vacant  Churches. 
St.  Paul's,  Iredell  CO. 1  57| 

Pilgrims',  Davidson  co.  -        -        -        -  1  05  —  2  62^ 

Total,         -         -         -         $57  28^ 
Respectfully  submitted, 

ALLKN  ROSE, 
ISAAC  RIBELLV. 
Adopted. 


XV.  Resolved,  That  the  thanks  of  this  Synod  be,  and  they 
are  hereby  tendered  to  the  friends  in  the  vicinity  of  Union 
Church,  for  the  kind  and  hospitable  manner  in  which  they 
have  entertained  the  members  of  Synod  and  other  visiting 
brethren  and  friends. 

The  committee  on  Conferential  Districts  read  the  following 
report:— 

Feport  A^o.  13. 

The  committee  to  whom  was  referred  the  subject  of  the  Conferential  Dis- 
tricts beg  leave  to  present  the  following  : 

1.  We  recommend  that  our  Synodical  bounds  be  divided  into  two  Confer- 
ential Districts. 

2.  The  lower  district  to  be  composed  of  the  following  ministers,  viz  : — 
Rev.  Messrs.  W.  Artz,  S.  Rothrock,  J.  A.  Linn,  W.  G.  Harter,  and  J. 
Swicegood. 

8.  The  upper  district  to  be  composed  of  the  following  brethren,  viz: — Rev. 
Messrs.  J.  B.  Anthony,  J.  D.  Scheck,  Benj.  Arej,  and  J.  Crim. 

4.  We  recommend  that  the  ministers  composing  these  districts  endeavor  to 

hold  one  Conference  during  the  year  in  each  pastorate,  at  such  time  and 

place  as  they  may  deem  expedient. 

BENJ.  AREY,  Chairman. 

Adopted. 

XVI.  Fesolved,  That  the  Secretary  have  1000  copies  of  the 
minutes  of  the  present  S3niodical  meeting  printed,  together 
with  the  Constitution  of  Synod — to  send  two  copies  to  each 
sister  Synod  in  the  United  States,  except  those  that  send  cor- 
responding delegates  to  this  body,  to  which  he  shall  send  five. 
The  remainder  to  be  distributed  amongst  the  churches. 

Rev.  W.  Artz  in  the  chair.  The  Synod  then  went  into  an 
election  for  corresponding  delegates,  &c.,  which  resulted  as  fol- 
lows : — 

To  Western  Virginia  Synod— Rev.  S.  Rothrock. 

The  President  resumed  the  chair. 

To  South  Carolina  Synod — Rev.  J.  Crim. 

An  election  for  Treasurer  of  Centenary  Fund  was  then  held, 
which  resulted  in  the  choice  of  Col.  J.  M.  Smith,  of  Davidson 
county. 

Likewise  an  election  was  held  for  Treasurer  of  Seminary 
Fund:  Mr.  D.  Miller  was  chosen. 

Committee  No.  7  reported. 


23 

JReport  No.  14. 

In  the  distribution  of  papers,  documouts,  &c.,  abound  volume  of  the  Min- 
utes of  the  [jutlieran  Synods  in  the  United  States  for  the  last  year,  was  put 
into  the  hands  of  your  committee,  which  had  been  forwarded  by  the  Luther- 
an Book  Conipany,  through  the  Rev.  B.  Arey,  as  a  present  to  this  body. 

The  volume  is  a  very  neat  one,  and  will,  if  preserved,  reflect  the  portrait 
of  American  Lulheranism,  as  now  existing,  for  years  to  come. 

Submitted  willi  deference, 

J.  B.  ANTHONY,  Chairman. 
Adopted. 

The  report  of  the  committee  which  had  been  appointed  to 
audit  the  account  of  the  Treasurer  of  Seminary  Fund  reported; 
but  as  there  appeared  from  tiie  report  of  the  committee  to  be 
some  discrepancy  in  the  Treasurer's  report,  the  wliole  matter 
was  referred  to  a  committee  by  the  following  resolution: 

XVII.  Resolved,  That  a  coinmittee  of  two  be  appointed  to 
confer  with  Mr.  D.  Miller,  respecting  his  report  as  Treasurer 
of  Seminary  Fund,  and  correct  any  error  or  apparent  discre- 
pancy, and  take  his  bond,  &c. 

Committee. — Rev.  W.  G.  Harter,  and  Mr.  M.  Barrier,  Esq. 

XVIII.  Resolved,  That  a  committee  of  two  be  appointed  to 
settle  with  the  former  treasurer  of  Centenary  Fund,  pay  the 
funds  over  to  the  treasurer  elect,  and  take  his  bond. 

Committee. — Rev.  J.  B.  Anthony  and  Mr.  M.  Davis. 

The  Synod  then  went  into  an  election  for  the  place  of  the 
next  meeting  of  Synod.  Organ  church.  Rowan  county,  and  St. 
Paul's  church,  Catawba  county,  were  put  in  nomination,  and 
after  counting  the  votes  it  was  ascertained  that  Organ  church, 
Rowan  county,  N.  C.  was  selected  as  the  place  for  the  next 
meeting  of  Synod.      Whereupon  it  was, 

XIX.  Resolved,  That  when  this  Synod  adjourns,  it  stand 
adjourned  to  meet  again  at  10  o'clock  A.M.  on  Friday  before 
the  first  Sunday  in  May,  1847. 

The  revised  Constitution  having  been  adopted  which  make 
provision  for  a  corresponding  Secretary,  an  election  was  then 
held  for  that  officer,  and  upon  counting  the  ballots,  it  was  as- 
certained that  according  to  the  requirements  of  the  constitution, 
the  Rev.  J.  A.  Linn  had  received  a  majority  of  all  the  votes 
polled. 


24 

Contributions  to  the  Centenary  Fund  were  then  called  for, 
and  the  following  sums  paid  over  to  the  committee  who  had 
been  appointed  to  settle  with  the  former  treasurer,  and  to  take 
the  bond  of  the  treasurer  elect. 

From  Organ  Church,  per  Rev.  S.  Rothrock,  S20  00 

"     St.  Stephen's  Church,  Mr.  Barrier's  3d  instalment,     5  00 
"     St.  Matthew's  Church,  per  Rev.  J.  A.  Linn,  8  00 

"     Union  Church,  Mr.  Tobias  Brown's  subscription,      G  00 


Total,  $39  00 

The  Synod  having  disposed  of  all  the  business  that  had  been 
brought  before  it,  then  adjourned  sine  die. 

SAML.  ROTHROCK,  President. 
J.  B.  Anthony,  Secretary. 


MINUTES 

or    THE 

MINISTERIUM. 

FIRST  SESSION. 

May  2nd,  3  o'clock,  P.  M. 

The  meeting  was  opened  with  appropriate  religious  services 
by  br.  Jacob  Crim. 

There  was  much  profitable  conversation  by  the  brethren  up- 
on the  subject  of  our  vacant  congregations,  and  the  necessity  of 
continued  and  untiring  efforts  of  ministers  in  this  Synod  to  sup- 
ply the  destitute,  and  to  meet  the  wants  of  the  church. 

Rev.  J.  Swicegood  produced  a  private  letter  from  the  Rev. 
Mr.  Hagen,  of  the  United  Brethren  Church,  in  which  he  in- 
quired of  br.  Swicegood  whether  he  could  occupy  one  of  our 
vacant  churches. 

Br.  Swicegood  wished  to  know  what  answer  to  give  br.  Ha- 
gen.    The  ministerium  directed  him  to  say  in  reply  to  the  let- 


ter:  that  it  is  the  intention  of  the  members  of  this  ministerium 
to  do  all  that  they  can  to  supply  our  vacant  congregations. 

SECOND  SESSION. 

May  5th,  8  o'clock,  P.  M. 
The  session  was  opened  with  prayer  by  tiie  President. 
The  business  which  had  been  referred  to  the  ministerium  by 
the  adoption  of  the  8th  report  presented  by  the  3d  committee, 
was   taken  up    and    discussed,    and  the    following  resolutions 
passed. 

I.  Resolved,  That  we  cannot  grant  the  request  of  the  peti- 
tioners. 

II.  Resolved,  That  the  license  of  Rev.  J.  Swicegood  be  re- 
newed for  one  year. 

III.  Resolved,  That  the  ministers  composing  this  body  be 
requested  to  visit  our  vacant  congregations  in  Catawba  and  Da- 
vidson counties  as  often  as  practicable. 

IV.  Resolved,  That  we  recommend  the  vacant  congregations 
in  Catawba  and  Davidson  counties,  to  the  special  notice  of  the 
executive  conmiittee  of  the  Missionary  and  Education  Society. 

V.  Resolved,  That  we  recommend  the  ministers  in  the  Upper 
Conference  District  to  inquire  into  the  practicability  of  organiz- 
ing a  congregation  somewhere  between  2d  and  3d  creeks,  be- 
tween Salisbury  and  Statesviile  to  meet  the  wants  of  such  of 
our  members  as  may  reside  in  that  vicinity. 

VI.  Resolved,  That  we  recommend  the  ministers  in  the 
Lower  Conference  District  to  inquire  into  the  practicability  of 
organizing  a  congregation  in  or  near  Albemarle,  in  the  county 
of  Stanley. 

The  ministerium  then  adjourned. 

SAM'L  ROTHROCK,  President. 
J.  B.  Anthony,  Secretary. 


PROCEEDINGS 


OF    THE 


PARENT  EDUCATION  &  MISSIONARY  SOCIETY 

OF    THE 

EVANG.  LUTH.  SYNOD  OF  N.  CAROLINA. 


According  to  the  appointment  of  last  year,  the  Society  met 
on  Monday,  P.  M.,  4th  May,  1846,  in  Union  Church,  when  the 
Missionary  Sermon  was  preached  by  Rev.  J.  D.  Scheck,  from 
Isa.  xlix,  16,  "  Behold  I  have  graven  thee  upon  the  palms  oj 
my  hands,  thy  walls  are  continually  before  ??2e." 

The  object  of  the  society  was  then  stated  by  the  President, 
whereupon  thirty-one  persons  enrolled  their  names  as  members 
for  one  year.  After  which  the  election  of  officers  was  held, 
and  resulted  as  follows  : 

Rev.  J.  D.  SCHECK,  President. 

"     J.  B.  ANTHONY,  Vice  President. 

"     WM.  G.  HARTER,  Secretary. 
DAVID  BARRINGER,  Esq.  Treasurer. 

The  President  made  the  following  appointments : 

^s  Executive  Committee — Rev.  Messrs.  B.  Arey,  J.  B.An- 
thony, J.  Crim. 

Board  of  Directors — Rev.  J.  Swicegood,  John  Sloop,  David 
Barringer,  John  Kerns,  Wm.  A.  Walton,  Wm.  H.  Smith. 

Committee  to  examine  the  former  Treasurer's  report — Da- 
vid Barringer,  John  Sloop,  Wm.  A.  Wahon. 

The  collection  of  money  at  the  present  meeting  in  aid  of  this 
society  amounted  to $16  82^ 


27 

1.  Resolved,  That  $2  87  cents  be  refunded  to  M.  Barrier, 
which  amount  he  paid  out  over  what  he  received. 

2.  ResolvciU  That  $1  25  cents  be  paid  to  Rev.  J.  D.  Schcck, 
for  postage  paid  out  by  him. 

The  committee  on  the  Treasurer's  Account  reported. 

Report  No.  1. 
The  committee  to  whom  was  referred  the  Treasurer's  Report,  beg  leave  to 
state  that  they  have  examined  the  same  and  find  it  correct. 

JOHN  SLOOP, 
WM.  A.  MAHTLV, 
DAVID  BARRINGER. 
Adopted. 

THE  TREASURER'S  REPORT. 
A  noie  on  Rev.  B.  Arey  and  Rothrock,  -         -         Sm  '2 

On  which  is  a  credit,  Feb.  9th,  1845  of       -         -         -         50  00 


$127   72 

Interest  on  the  above  to  4th  May,  1846, 

. 

17  54 

Cash  on  hand,          .         .         .         .         - 

30  55 

Whole  amount  due  the  society  in  cash, 

$175   81 

A  note  on  L.  C.  Groseclose,     -        -        - 

$75  00 

"         "  John  Krimminger, 

-       60  00 

"  Wm.  H.  Fink, 

65  00  - 

-$200  00 

$375   81 
Respectfully  submitted, 

DAN'L  BARRIER,  Treamrtr. 

M.  Barrier  Esq.  then  rose  and  stated  to  the  society  that  the 

other  note  amountinof  to  one  hundred  and  ten   dollars   ajrainst 

Mr.  John  Krimminger,  had  been  received  by  the  late  Rev.  H. 

Graeber,  whose  order  he  held  as  voucher  for  paying  the  money 

to  Mr.  K. 

Money  received  from  ^iuxiliary  Societies  per  Rev.  S.  Rothrock. 
From  Society  at  Organ  Church,  $5  25 

St.  Stephen's  Church,      5  37.]— 10  62.1 
Interest  of  Centenary  money,  -         -         -         23  85 

From  Bethel  Church,  ....  1  20 

A  committee    was  appointed  to  pay  the  money  now  in  hand, 

to  the  treasurer  elect,  and  take  his  bond. — Rev.  Lynn,  Col. 

Smith,  and  J.  Kerns,  committee. 


28 

After  a  short  interval,  the  committee  reported  that  they  had 
attended  to  their  duty. 

The  whole  capital  of  this  society  in  notes  and  cash,  as  seen 
by  the  foregoing  exhibit,  amounts  to  $428  31  cents. 

A  letter  was  read  from  L.  C.  Groseclose  by  the  President, 
stating  his  progress  in  study,  his  intentions,  &c.,  pledging  that 
he  will  refund  the  money  received  from  this  societ}?-,  by  mis- 
sionating  in  our  bounds  after  his  graduation,  which  is  welcome 
intelligence  to  us,  as  we  have  now  so  wide  a  field  in  this  State 
for  missionary  enterprise.* 

REPORT  OF  THE  EXECUTIVE  COMMITTEE. 
The  committee  appointed  at  your  last  annual  meeting  for  the  purpose  of 
employing  one  or  more  Missionaries  to  labor  in  the  destitute  churches  and 
places  within  the  bounds  of  the  Synod,  beg  leave  to  report,  that  after  mak- 
ing every  effort  to  secure  the  services  of  some  competent  person,  they  have 
failed  in  accomplishing  the  object  contemplated  by  your  society. 

Respectfully  submitted, 

JOHN  D.  SCHECK,  Chairman. 
The  committee  whose  duty  it  was  made  to  make  search  for  the  notes  given 
to  and  held  by  your  society,  on  Mr.  John  Krimminger,  report,  that  in  obe- 
dience to  instructions  of  your  society,  they  made  diligent  search  for  said 
notes,  and  succeeded  in  finding  one  of  $60  00,  which  has  been  placed  in  the 
hands  of  your  Treasurer.  Submitted  with  deference, 

JOHN  D.  SCHECK,  Cliairman. 

3.  Resolved,  That  the  President  appoint  some  one  to  preach 
a  Missionary  Sermon  at  our  next  meeting,  on  Sunday,  P.  M. 
when  a  collection  will  be  taken  up  in  aid  of  the  society :  Rev. 
J.  A.  Lynn  was  appointed. 

4.  Resolved,  That  extracts  of  our  proceedings  be  printed 
with  the  minutes  of  the  Synod. 

5.  Resolved,  That  the  President  give  his  receipt  to  the  for- 
mer treasurer,  Daniel  Barrier,  against  his  bond  to  this  society. 

6.  Resolvedf  That  the  next  meeting  of  the  society  shall  be 
at  2  o'clock  on  Monday,  P.  M,  at  the  place  of  the  meeting  of 
Synod. 

7.  Resolved,  That  we  now  adjourn. 

WM.  G.  HARTER, 
Sec'y.  of  Miss,  and  Ed.  Society. 

*We  wish  to  emptoy  a  domestic  Missionary  to  labor  within  our  State. 
Who  will  come  to  our  aid?  We  need  aid  now.  W.  G.  HARTER. 


C  O  N  S  T  I  T  U  T  10  N 

FOR    THE    MEMHERS    COMPOSING    THE 

EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN  SYNOD 

OF 

NORTH    CAROLINA. 


CHAPTER    I . 

Of  the  Synod. 

Sec.  1.  We  whose  names  arc  subscribed  to  this  Constitu- 
tion, the  Ministers  of  the  Evangehcal  Lutheran  churches  of 
North  CaroHna,  having  united  ourselves  into  one  body,  signify 
hereby  that  we  desire  to  be  known  as  "  The  Evangelical  Lu- 
theran Synod  4'  Ministerium  of  North  Carolina;'^  and  we 
solemnly  promise  to  govern  and  regulate  ourselves  by  the  fol- 
lowing Constitution. 

Sec.  2.  This  Synod  shall  consist  of  all  the  Ministers,  licensed 
candidates,  and  lay  delegates  duly  authorised  to  represent  the 
congregations  within  their  respective  districts. 

Sec.  3.  The  number  of  lay-votes  shall  not  exceed  that  of  the 
ordained  clergymen  and  licentiates  ;  and  if  a  lay-delegate  be 
present  from  a  pastorate  in  which  there  is  no  stated  minister, 
he  shall  have  a  seat  and  the  liberty  of  speech,  but  no  vote  : — 
But  if  a  lay-delegate  be  present  from  a  pastorate  in  which  there 
is  a  stated  minister,  he  shall  have  equal  privileges  with  the  oth- 
er lay-delegates. 

Sec.  4.  It  is  the  duty  of  this  Synod  to  see  that  the  rules  of  gov- 
ernment and  discipline  prescribed  in  the  Formula,  are  observed 
by  all  the  congregations  and  ministers  within  its  bounds,  to  receive 
appeals  from  decisions  of  church  councils  and  of  special  confer- 
ences, when  regularly  brought  before  them,  and  review  and  re- 


verse  or  confirm  the  decisions  to  which  they  refer  ;  to  examine 
and  decide  on  all  charges  against  ministers  and  h'centiates, — 
that  of  heterodoxy  alone  excepted,  to  provide  supplies  for  desti- 
tute congregations,  and  to  devise  and  execute  suitable  measures 
for  the  promotion  of  piety  and  the  general  prosperity  of  the 
church. 

Sec.  5.  The  Synod  and  Ministerium  shall  have  power  to 
cite  any  church  members  within  their  bounds  to  appear  before 
them,  and  to  endeavor  to  obtain  other  witnesses  when  the  case 
may  require  it. 

Sec,  0.  If  any  congregation  in  connexion  with  this  Synod, 
should  refuse  to  observe  the  provisions  of  its  Constitution  or  of 
the  Formula,  (see  Art.  4  of  Formula,)  it  shall  be  excluded  from 
connexion  with  said  Synod  during  the  time  of  its  refusal :  nor 
shall  any  Minister  or  Licentiate  belonging  to  the  Synod,  take 
charo-e  of  it  without  special  permission  of  the  President. 

Sec.  7.  Any  congregation,  situated  within  the  bounds  of  this 
Synod,  may  become  connected  with  it  by  acceding  to  the  pro- 
visions of  its  Constitution  and  Formula  of  Discipline,  and  ma- 
kino-  some  annual  contribution  towards  defraying  the  expenses 
of  said  Synod.  For  this  purpose  an  annual  collection  ought  to 
be  held  in  each  congregation. 

Sec.  8.  At  least  one  meeting  of  the  Synod  shall  be  held  ev- 
ery year,  at  such  time  and  place  as  may  be  determined  on  by 
said  Synod. 

Sec.  9.  No  minister  or  licentiate  shall  be  absent  from  the 
meeting  of  the  Synod  without  the  most  urgent  necessity.  In 
case  of  his  absence,  he  shall,  if  possible,  send  to  the  President 
a  written  apology  for  his  absence.  Voluntary  ministerial  en- 
gagements shall  not  be  regarded  as  a  sufficient  excuse.  Any 
minister,  (ordained  or  licensed,)  violating  the  provisions  of  this 
section,  shall  be  called  to  account  by  the  President  at  the  next 
meeting. 

Sec.  10.  All  letters  and  papers  intended  for  the  Synod  or 
Ministerium,  ought  to  be  addressed  to  the  President. 

Sec.  11.  The  minister  of  the  place  in  which  the  Synod  is 
held,  with  the  church  council,  shall  endeavor  to  provide  for  the 
entertainment  of  the  ministers,  candidates  and  lay-delegates  by 
christian  friends. 


31 

Sec.  12.  All  the  members  of  the  Synod  shall  endeavor  to  as- 
semble on  the  evening  preceding  the  day  appointed. 

Sec.  13.  Divine  worship  shall  be  celebrated  during  the  meet- 
ing of  the  Synod,  as  often  as  may  be  convenient  and  consistent 
with  the  business  of  the  Synod. 

Sec.  14.  Ministerial  delegates  from  other  Lutheran  Synods 
shall  be  entitled  to  a  seat,  and  to  a  participation  in  all  our  synod- 
ical  transactions,  except  that  of  voting. 

Sec.  15.  Ministers  of  good  standing  in  orthodox  ecclesiastical 
bodies  or  sister  churches,  who  may  happen  to  be  present,  or  who 
appear  as  delegates  from  said  bodies,  may  be  received  as  advi- 
sory members,  but  cannot  vote  in  any  of  the  decisions  of  the 
Synod. 

C  H  A  P  T  E  R  II . 

Officers    of  the    Synod. 

Sec.  1.  The  officers  of  the  Synod  shall  be  a  President,  Cor- 
responding and  Recording  Secretaries  and  Treasurer,  who,  ex- 
cept the  Corresponding  Secretary  and  Treasurer,  shall  be  the 
officers  of  the  Ministerium. 

Sec,  2.  All  these  officers  shall  be  chosen  annually  by  ballot, 
by  a  majority  of  the  votes  of  the  ministers  and  lay-delegates  pres- 
ent ;  the  President  and  Secretaries  from  among  the  ordained 
ministers,  but  the  Treasurer  may  be  chosen  from  among  the 
lay-members  of  the  the  church. 

Sec.  3.  The  President  and  Recording  Secretary  shall  not  be 
eligible  for  more  than  three  successive  years,  but  the  Corres- 
ponding Secretary  and  Treasurer  shall  always  be  re-eligible. 

Of  the  President. 

Sec.  4.  The  President  shall  deliver  a  synodical  discourse  at 
the  meeting  of  every  Synod  ;  and  he  shall,  in  connexion  with 
the  pastor  loci,  appoint  the  other  individuals  who  are  to  preach 
during  the  session. 

Sec,  5.  He  shall,  at  the  beginning  of  every  Synod,  make  a 
written  report  of  all  the  official  business  transacted  and  letters 
received  by  him  since  the  last  meeting,  and  of  all  the  important 
events  which  have  occurred  relating  to  the  Synod,  and  may  re- 


32 

commend  for  their  consideration,  such  measures  as  he  may 
deem  necessary,  or  calculated  to  promote  the  cause  of  God. — 
This  report  shall  be  laid  on  the  table,  and  dealt  with  as  all  oth- 
er papers  coming  before  the  body. 

Sec.  6.  He  shall  preside  at  all  meetings  of-  the  Synod  and 
Ministerium. 

Sec.  7.  The  President  has  a  right  to  take  part  in  the  discus- 
sions as  well  as  any  other  member.  When  the  house  is  equal- 
ly divided  on  any  question,  he  has  the  casting  vote.  In  all  oth- 
er cases  he  has  no  suffrage,  except  when  an  election  is  held  by 
ballot,  and  then  he  has  not  the  casting  vote. 

Sec.  8.  The  President  shall  preserve  order,  not  suffer  more 
than  one  member  to  speak  at  a  time,  secure  to  each  person  lib- 
erty to  speak  without  interruption  from  others,  and  shall  pre- 
vent the  speaker  from  deviating  from  the  subject  before  the 

house. 

Sec.  9.  The  President  shall  take  care  that  each  subject  be 

duly  considered  before  a  decision  be  made.  He  shall  distinct- 
ly rehearse  each  motion  when  no  one  has  any  further  observa- 
tions to  offer,  and  take  the  vote  of  the  house  on  the  same. 

Sec.  10.  When  the  votes  are  called  for,  they  are  to  be  given 
by  ayes  and  nays,  and  no  further  observations  are  then  admis- 
sible. 

Sec.  11.  The  President  has  the  appointment  of  all  commit- 
tees which  are  not  to  be  elected  by  ballot,  or  otherwise  ;  and 
every  motion  for  the  formation  of  a  committee  shall  specify  in 
what  way  it  is  to  be  formed. 

Sec.  12.  It  is  an  important  part  of  his  duty  to  give  counsel  to 
every  member  of  the  Synod  when  he  deems  it  expedient,  and 
particularly  to  admonish  and  advise  every  erring  brother.  If 
accusation  has  been  lodged  against  any  member  of  this  body, 
according  to  chapter  3d,  section  5th,  of  the  Formula,  or  if  he 
has  any  reason  to  believe  that  any  minister  is  living  in  any  ma- 
terial violation  of  the  rules  of  this  Constitution,  it  shall  be  his 
duty  to  call  upon  the  individual  to  relieve  his  character  from 
said  imputation  before  the  Synod  or  Ministerium. 

Sec.  13.  Should  the  President  remove  from  the  hmits  of  the 
Synod  or  depart  this  life,  then  the  Secretary  shall  succeed  him, 
and  discharge  the  duties  of  the  President  until  the  next  Synod. 


33 

Of  the  Recording  Secretary. 

Sec.  14.  The  Recording  Secretary  shall  keep  a  faithful  and 
accurate  record  of  all  the  proceedings  of  the  Synod  and  Minis- 
terium,  carefully  preserve  all  the  papers,  the  seal  of  the  Sj'nod, 
&c.,  subject  to  its  direction,  and  shall  do  all  the  ollicial  writing 
of  the  Synod  not  otherwise  provided  for. 

Sec.  15.  He  shall  give  public  notice  of  the  time  and  place  of 
the  Synodical  meeting  at  least  six  weeks  before  the  time  ap- 
pointed. 

Sec.  16.  He  is  to  keep  a  register  of  the  names  of  all  the  min- 
isters and  licentiates,  arranged  according  to  their  age  in  office, 
and  also  of  the  congregations,  whether  vacant  or  not,  connected 
with  the  Synod. 

Sec.  17.  If  the  accumulation  of  business  should  render  it  ne- 
cessary, the  President  may  appoint  an  assistant  Secretary,  whose 
office  shall  expire  at  the  close  of  the  session  of  the  Synod. 

Sec.  18.  If  in  the  recess  of  the  Synod,  the  Secretary  should 
remove  into  the  bounds  of  another  Synod,  or  depart  this  life, 
the  President  shall  require  the  archives,  the  seal,  and  all  other 
property  of  the  Synod  to  be  delivered  to  him,  and  shall  retain 
the  charge  of  them  until  the  next  session  of  Synod,  when  he 
shall  appoint  a  Secretary  pro  tem. 

Sec.  19.  Unless  the  archives  are  otherwise  disposed  of  by 
the  Synod,  they  shall  be  in  the  charge  and  custody  of  the  Sec- 
retary. Any  minister  or  delegate  of  a  congregation  connected 
with  said  Synod,  shall  have  free  access  to  them,  but  no  part  of 
them  shall  be  allowed  to  be  taken  away  or  destroyed. 

Of  the  Corresponding  Secretary. 

Sec.  20.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Corresponding  Secretary 
to  perform  all  the  public  correspondence  with  other  ecclesiasti- 
cal bodies  and  with  individuals,  relative  to  the  general  interests 
of  the  church,  and  particularly  of  this  Synod. 

Sec.  21.  He  shall  make   a  minute  of  all  important  matters 
which  may  be  communicated  to  him,  either  by  letter  or  in  the 
Minutes  of  Lutheran  Synods,  which  he  shall  present  to  this  Syn- 
od at  its  regular  meeting  in  the  form  of  a  report. 
3 


34 

Of  the  Treasurer. 

Sec.  22.  The  Treasurer  shall  take  charge  of  all  the  monies 
belonging  to  the  Synod,  and  shall  keep  thena  subject  to  its  or- 
der. He  shall  give  bond  and  security  in  such  sum  as  the  Syn- 
od may  direct.  He  shallkeep  and  present  at  each  annual  meet- 
ing a  detailed  and  faithful  account  of  the  state  of  the  Treasury. 

Sec.  23.  An  order  from  the  President  attested  by  the  Secre- 
tary, on  the  Treasurer,  shall  be  a  sufficient  voucher  for  him  to 
pay  any  money  out  of  the  Treasury. 

Sec.  24.  Should  the  Treasurer,  during  the  recess  of  the  Syn- 
od, remove  out  of  its  bounds,  or  be  removed  by  death,  the  Pres- 
ident shall  cause  all  monies,  certificates,  bonds  and  documents 
belonging  to  the  Synod,  to  be  delivered  into  his  hands,  and  shall 
have  the  charge  of  them  until  the  next  synodical  session. 

CHAPTER    III. 

Members  of  the  Synod. 

Sec.  1.  It  is  the  sacred  duty  of  every  ordained  minister,  li- 
centiate and  lay-delegate  of  this  Synod,  to  observe  the  provi- 
sions of  this  Constitution. 

Sec.  2.  It  is  recommended  to  every  ordained  minister  and  li- 
centiate, to  aid  in  circulating  among  the  members  of  his  charge, 
the  books  proposed  by  said  Synod. 

Sec.  3.  No  minister  or  licentiate  shall  interfere  with  the  con- 
gregations of  another,  by  preaching  or  performing  other  minis- 
terial duties  in  them,  except  by  his  request  or  consent,  if  pres- 
ent ;  nor  in  his  absence,  if  he  have  reason  to  think  that  any  evil 
would  result  to  said  church. 

Sec.  4.  Any  minister  or  licentiate  in  good  standing,  who  re- 
moves from  the  bounds  of  this  Synod,  into  those  of  another, 
shall,  on  application  to  the  President,  receive  a  certificate  under 
his  signature  of  his  regular  dismission. 

Sec.  5.  Whenever  a  minister  moves  within  the  bounds  of 
this  Synod,  and  takes  charg^e  of  congregations  under  our  care, 
he  shall  immediately  notify  the  President  of  the  fact,  and  he 
shall  likewise  connect  himself  with  our  Synod  at  its  next  session. 

Sec.  6.  Every  ordained  minister  has  the  right  to  leave  his 


35 

charge  and  remove  to  another  whenever  he  believes  it  his  duty 
so  to  do ;  yet  he  must  give  his  congregations  and  the  President 
timely  notice  of  his  intended  removal. 

Sec.  7.  If  any  minister  voluntarily  dissolves  his  connection 
with,  or  is  suspended  or  excommunicated  from  this  Synod,  his 
connection  with  his  cengregations  as  pastor  thereof  shall  imme- 
diately cea^e. 

Sec,  8.  A  licensed  candidate  shall  have  the  liberty  to  visit 
vacant  congregations,  either  upon  receiving  an  invitation  from 
ihem,  or  upon  the  advice  of  the  Synod  or  President. 

Sec,  9.  After  a  licentiate  has  a  stated  charge,  he  shall  be  re- 
stricted to  it,  and  shall  not  resign  it  without  the  consent  of  the 
Ministerium,  or  in  its  recess,  of  the  President. 

Sec.  10.  A  licentiate  has  power  to  perform  all  the  ministeri- 
al functions  during  the  time  specified  in  his  Hcense. 

Sec.  11.  In  addition  to  the  obligations  of  ministers  specified 
in  Chap.  3,  Sec.  1,  of  Formula,  it  is  the  duty  of  licentiates  par- 
ticularly, to  devote  all  their  leisure  time  to  their  personal  im- 
provement in  knowledge  and  grace,  to  receive  counsel  from  the 
President,  and  apply  to  him  for  advice  in  case  of  difficulty. 

Sec.  12.  Every  licentiate  must  keep  a  regular  journal  of  his 
ministerial  acts,  which  with  a  few  sermons  of  his  own  composi- 
tion, he  must  deliver  or  send  annually  for  the  inspection  of  the 
Ministerium. 

Sec.  13.  If  any  congregation  in  connection  with  this  Synod, 
shall,  without  our  consent,  employ  as  its  pastor,  a  minister  who 
has  been  expelled  from  any  ecclesiastical  body,  or  who  is  not 
acknowledged  by  this  Synod,  said  congregation  shall  be  exclu- 
ded from  our  connection. 

Sec.  14.  Any  licentiate,  coming  from  the  bounds  of  another 
Lutheran  Synod,  shall,  upon  presenting  a  letter  of  dismissal,  be 
received  as  a  member  of  our  Synod,  and  his  license  shall  be  re- 
garded as  valid. 

Lay-Delegates. 

Sec.  15.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  council  or  councils  of  the 
church  or  churches  of  each  pastoral  district,  to  elect  annually  a 
lay-delegate  to  attend  the  meeting  of  Synod  ;  and  the  delegate 


so  selected  shall  receive  a  certificate  signed  by  the  Pastor  and 
countersigned  by  one  or  more  members  of  the  church  council ; 
but  if^  the  pastorate  be  vacant,  the  certificate  shall  be  signed  by 
members  of  the  church  council  only. 

Sec.  16.  Each  lay-delegate  entitled  to  a  seat  by  this  Consti- 
stitution,  shall  have  equal  rights  with  the  ministers  in  all  busi- 
ness belonging  to  the  Synod,  viz :  he  may  take  part  in  the  de- 
bates, offer  resolutions,  and  vote  on  all  Synodical  questions. 

CHAPTER    IV. 

Order  of  Business. 

It  is  recommended  that  the  transactions  of  Synod  be  conduct- 
ed as  follows : 

Sec.  1.  At  the  time  and  place  appointed  for  the  meeting,  the 
members  present  shall  assemble,  and  if  three  ordained  ministers 
and  three  lay-delegates  be  present,  they  shall  constitute  a  quo- 
rum. 

Sec.  2.  The  President  shall  open  the  first  session  by  prayer, 
after  the  brethren  have  unitedly  sung  a  hymn  ;  and  every  ses- 
sion of  the  Synod  and  Ministerium  shall  be  opened  and  closed 
with  prayer.  In  the  absence  of  the  President,  the  first  prayer 
shall  be  made  by  the  Secretary,  and  if  he  also  be  absent,  by  one 
of  the  elder  ministers  present. 

Sec.  S.  The  Secretary  shall  then  call  the  names  of  all  the  or- 
dained ministers  and  licentiates  belonging  to  the  Synod,  and 
note  the  absentees. 

Sec.  4.  The  lay-delegates  shall  then  exhibit  the  certificates 
of  their  appointment,  and  their  names  shall  be  registered  by  the 
Secretary  as  members  of  the  Synod. 

Sec.  5.  The  President  shall  make  his  report  according  to 
Chap.  2,  Sec.  5,  of  this  Constitution,  as  the  last  official  act  of  his 
office,  and  then  inform  the  members  that  the  election  of  officers 
for  the  ensuing  year  is  now  to  be  attended  to. 

Sec.  6.  Admission  of  delegates  or  ministers  from  other  eccle- 
siastical bodies,  according  to  Chap.  1,  Sec.  14 — 15. 

Sec.  7.  The  minutes  of  the  last  Synod  may  be  read. 

Sec.  8.  All  papers  intended  for  the  Synod  or  Ministerium, 


37 

are  to  be  handed  in,  and  verbal  notice  may  be  given  of  any  im- 
portant business  intended  to  be  brought  before  the  Synod. 

Sec.  9.  The  Secretary  shall  then  number  the  papers  as  ar- 
ranged by  the  President ;  after  which  they  shall  be  taken  up 
and  discussed  before  the  whole  house  in  numerical  order,  or  be 
first  referred  to  committees,  as  the  house  may  direct.  The  re- 
ports of  committees  maybe  heard  and  acted  on  at  any  time,  and 
the  intervals  be  filled  up  by  the  succeeding  items. 

Sec.  10.  Each  minister  shall  be  called  on  by  the  Secretary  for 
his  parochial  report,  which  may  embrace  the  following  items  : 
Number  of  congregations.  Baptisms,  Confirmations,  Receptions 
by  letter.  Dismissions,  Commnnicants,  Deaths  of  members.  Bu- 
rials, Expulsions,  Restorations,  Sabbath  Schools,  Teachers, 
Scholars,  Bible  Classes,  Prayer  Meetings,  and  Missionary  & 
Education  Societies. 

Sec.  11.  The  Treasurer's  account  shall  be  heard. 

Sec.  12.  The  number  of  vacant  congregations  shall  be  inqui- 
red into,  and  provision  made  for  them. 

Sec.  13.  Promiscuous  business. 

Sec.  14.  Election  of  Delegates  to  Ecclesiastical  bodies,  and 
of  Directors  of  the  Theological  Seminaries  at  Gettysburg,  Pa., 
and  at  Lexington,  S.  C. 

Sec.  15.  The  Synod  may  then  determine  the  time  and  place 
of  the  next  meeting.  If,  during  the  recess  of  Synod,  the  Presi- 
dent, with  the  consent  of  the  pastor  of  the  congregation  where 
the  Synod  was  to  be  held,  or  if  the  congregation  be  vacant,  with 
the  consent  of  the  church  council,  should  deem  a  change  of 
place  necessary  for  holding  the  Synod,  he  shall  have  power  to 
select  some  other  suitable  place  for  that  purpose,  by  giving 
timely  notice  of  such  change. 

Sec.  10.  Dismission  of  the  Synod. 

Sec.  17.  Should  the  President  or  Secretary  be  absent  at  the 
proper  time  for  opening  a  session,  the  members  present  may 
elect  others  pro  tempore. 

CHAPTER    V. 

Process  against  a  Minister. 
Sec.  1.  As  the  honor  and  success  of  the  gospel  depend  very 
much  on  the  character  of  its  ministers,  the  Synod  ought  to 


38 

guard,  with  the  utmost  care  and  impartiality,  the  conduct  of  its 
members. 

Sec.  2.  All  christians  should  be  very  cautious  in  giving  cred- 
it or  circulation  to  an  ill  report  of  any  man,  and  especially  of  a 
minister  of  the  gospel.     If  any  man  knows  a  minister  to  be  guilty 
of  a  private  censurable  fault,  he  should  warn  him  in  private. 
If  this  prove  fruitless,  he  should  apply  to  the  church  council, 
who  shall  proceed  as  specified  in  Chap.  3,  par.  5,  of   Formula. 
Sec.  3.  If  accusation  be  lodged  according  to  Chap.  3,  Sec.  5, 
of  said  Formula,  with  the  President,  within  four  months  of  the 
time  of  the  next  Synodical  meeting,  he  shall  defer  the  matter  to 
said  meeting  ;  yet  if  the  charge  be  one  of  drunkenness,  lewd- 
ness,  circulating  fundamental  errors  in  doctrine,  or  a  higher 
crime,  he  shall  immediately  direct  the  accused  to  suspend  all 
his  ministerial  duties  until  his  case  is  decided.     If  such  accusa- 
tion is  lodged  with  the  President  at  an  earlier  date,  he  shall,  if 
the  charge  be  one  of  drunkenness,  lewdness,  circulating  funda- 
mental errors  in  doctrine,  or  higher  crime,  immediately  give  no- 
tice to  all  the  members  of  the  Conference  District  to  which  the 
accused  belongs,  to  meet  without  delay  at  a  suitable  place,  and 
institute  a  formal  investigation  of  the  case,  according  to  the 
principles  of  the  Formula.      The  President  shall  immediately 
fix  the  time  and  place  of  the  meeting,  and  give  at  least  fifteen 
days  notice  of  the  same  to  each  minister  in  the  Conference  Dis- 
trict, and  also  to  the  parties  concerned, — Or  the  President  may 
appoint  a  committee  of  three   ordained  ministers,  and  fix  the 
time  and  place  of  their  meeting,  and  give  all  the  notice  as  above 
required. 

Sec.  4.  A  committee  of  three  ordained  ministers  thus  appoint- 
ed, shall  have  power  to  proceed  and  hold  a  fair  and  impartial 
investigation  of  the  case,  and  to  take  all  such  measures  as  may 
be  just  and  necessary  to  determine  the  guilt  or  innocence  of  the 
accused. 

Sec.  5.  If  the  accused  confess,  and  the  matter  be  base  and 
flagitious,  such  as  are  specified  in  Sec.  3,  of  this  Chapter,  how- 
ever penitent  he  may  be,  he  must  be  immediately  suspended 
from  the  exercise  of  his  office,  and  if  thought  expedient,  a  time 
appointed  for  him  to  confess  publicly  to  the  congregation  his 
guilt  and  penitence. 


39 

Sec.  G.  If  a  minister,  accused  of  atrocious  crimes,  being  duly 
notified,  refuses  to  alltiul  the  investigation,  he  shall  still  be  im- 
mediately suspended  from  ollice. 

Sec.  7.  If  the  accused  deny  the  charge,  and  yet  on  examina- 
tion of  the  evidences  is  found  guilty,  the  Conference  or  Commit- 
tee shall  nevertheless  proceed  to  pass  sentence  on  hini. 

Sec.  8.  The  highest  punishment  which  can  be  inflicted  by  a 
Conference  or  Committee  appointed  as  above  specified,  is  sus- 
pension from  clerical  functions ;  and  this  sentence  is  to  be  re- 
ported to  the  next  meeting  of  the  Synod,  and  remains  in  force 
till  reversed  by  the  Synod  or  Ministerium,  as  the  case  may  be. 

Sec.  9.  Any  minister  intending  to  appeal  from  the  decision 
of  a  Conference  or  Committee,  shall  give  notice  of  it  to  his  accu- 
sers within  three  weeks  after  the  time  when  the  decision  was 
made,  that  both  parties  may  be  prepared  for  a  new  trial. 

Sec.  10.  If  at  any  time  accusation  be  lodged  with  the  Presi- 
dent according  to  Chap.  iii.  par.  5,  of  Formula,  for  a  less  crime 
than  those  above  specified  in  Sec.  iii.  of  this  Chapter,  lie  shall 
take  no  other  steps  in  the  case  than  to  write  a  letter  to  the  accu- 
sed and  the  accusers,  exhorting  them  to  mutual  forbearance  and 
referring  them  to  the  next  Synod. 

Sec.  11.  If  accusation  against  a  minister  be  made  immediate- 
ly to  the  Synod,  and  the  Synod  believe  themselves  to  be  in  pos- 
session of  all  the  evidence  necessary  to  a  just  decision,  the  case 
may  be  examined  immediately  and  sentence  passed.  But  if 
the  necessary  evidence  be  not  before  them,  and  the  crime  be 
such  as  is  specified  in  Section  iii,  of  this  Chapter,  they  shall  ap- 
point a  meeting  of  a  Committee  who  shall  proceed  as  above  spe- 
cified. 

Sec.  12.  If  a  minister  be  found  guilty  of  drunkenness,  funda- 
mental heresy,  lewdness,  or  higher  crimes,  his  sentence  of  sus- 
pension shall  not  be  removed  until  after  some  time  of  penitent, 
humble,  and  edifying  conduct ;  and  he  cannot  be  restored  by 
any  other  judicatory  than  the  Synod,  or  Ministerium,  if  his  case 
was  one  of  fundamental  heresy. 

CHAPTERVI. 

Vacant    Congregations. 
Sec.  1.  Vacant  congregations  which  cannot  be  immediately 


40 

• 

supplied  with  a  minister,  are  advised  to  assemble  on  the  Lord's 
day,  to  select  some  member  of  the  church  of  suitable  capacity 
and  character,  to  conduct  the  exercises,  and  engage  in  the  wor- 
ship of  God. 

Sec.  2.  It  is  also  recommended  that  at  these  meetings,  a  por- 
tion of  the  Scriptures,  and  of  the  prayers  contained  in  the  Lit- 
urgy, or  some  select  sermons,  such  as  are  approved  of  by  the 
President  of  the  Synod,  be  read. 

CHAPTER    VII. 

Of  Missions, 
As  the  Saviour  left  to  his  followers,  the  command,  "Go  ye 
and  make  disciples  of  all  nations,  baptising  them  in  the  name 
of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  teaching 
them  to  observe  all  things  whatsoever  I  have  commanded  you,"* 
the  Synod  shall  regard  it  as  a  sacred  duty  to  adopt,  from  time 
to  time,  such  measures  as  they  may  deem  best  calculated  to  ex- 
ecute this  solemn  injunction. 

CHAPTER    VIII. 

Election  of  Delegates  and  Directors. 

Sec.  1.  The  election  of  Delegates  to  ecclesiastical  bodies,  and 
Directors  of  the  Theological  Seminaries  at  Gettj^sburg,  Pa.,  and 
at  Lexington,  S.  C,  may  be  held  by  ballot,  and  a  licensed  can- 
didate shall  not  be  eligible  to  either  of  these  offices. 

Sec.  2.  Should  any  Delegate  elected  by  this  Synod  to  repre- 
sent us  in  any  other  ecclesiastical  body,  ascertain  that  he  can- 
not attend  said  meeting,  he  shall  be  required  to  inform  the  Pres- 
ident, at  least  six  weeks  previously,  who  w^ith  the  Secretary 
and  the  Delegate  elect,  shall  be  authorized  to  appoint  some 
person  as  his  alternate. 

CHAPTER    IX. 

Special  Conferences. 

Sec.  1.  There  shall  be  at  least  two  Conferences  in  each  Con- 
ference District,  during  the  Synodical  year,  at  which  all  the  or- 

*Matt.  ;:xviii.  19—20.  r,       )    "^v     " 


41 

dainecl  ministers  and  licentiates  uithin  the  District,  are  required 
to  be  present,  and  these  meetings  to  be  continued  at  least  two 
days. 

Sec.  2.  The  business  to  be  performed  at  these  meetings  is  to 
strive  to  awaken  sinners  and  to  edify  believers  by  close  practi- 
cal preaching. 

Sec.  3.  The  state  of  rch'gion  in  the  churches  shall  be  inqui- 
red into,  and  some  time  be  spent  by  the  Conference  alone  in 
conversation  on  subjects  relating  to  pastoral  experience. 

Sec.  4.  These  Conferences  shall  beheld  alternately,  in  some 
congregation  of  each  minister  and  hcentiate  belonging  to  the 
Conference. 

Sec.  5.  Special  Conferences  may  give  their  advice  on  any 
business  of  congregations  which  is  referred  to  them  ;  but  no 
Conference  shall,  under  any  pretext  whatever,  perform  an^^  bus- 
iness connected  with  the  licensure  or  ordination  of  candidates 
for  the  ministry,  except  by  the  direction  of  the  Ministerium. 

Sec.  6.  Lay-delegates  may  also  be  sent  to  these  Conferences, 
under  the  same  regulations  as  to  the  Synod. 

CH  A  PTER    X. 

Of  the  Ministerium. 

Sec.  1.  The  clergy  at  the  call  of  the  President  at  an  early 
period  of  the  Synodical  Session,  shall  hold  a  meeting,  consist- 
ing exclusively  of  scripture  elders,  that  is,  preachers,*  for  the 
purpose  of  attending  to  those  duties  which  Christ  and  his  Apos- 
tles enjoined  upon  them  alone,  viz  :  examination,  licensure,  and 
ordination  of  candidates  for  the  ministry.  Such  a  meeting  is 
called  The  Ministerium,  or  Presbytery,!  by  which  in  sacred 
scripture  is  meant.  Ministers  alone. 

Sec.  2.  Licensed  candidates  may  be  present  at  the  Ministe- 
rial meeting,  unless  requested  to  withdraw,  and  may  take  part 
in  the  discussions,  but  have  no  vote. 

Sec.  3.  The  Ministerium  shall  also  be  the  proper  body,  by 
whom  all  charges  of  heresy  against  a  minister  are  to  be  exami- 
ned and  decided  ;  as  also  all  appeals  from  the  decision  of  a 
church  council,  on  a  charge  of  heresy  against  a  layman. 

•Acts  XX.  17—28.        il  Tim.  iv.  14. 


42 
See.  4.  When  ordained  ministers  of  other  rehorious  denomi- 

o 

nations,  make  application  for  admission  into  connection  with 
this  Synod,  the  Ministerium  shall  be  the  body  to  decide  on  the 
case. 

Sec.  5.  Two-thirds  of  the  ordained  ministers  shall  be  requi- 
red, either  for  the  licensure  of  an  applicant  as  well  as  the  re- 
newal of  his  license,  or  the  ordination  of  a  licensed  candidate, 
or  the  admission  of  an  ordained  minister  of  another  congrega- 
tion. The  question  relative  to  the  ordination,  licensure,  or  ad- 
mission of  a  minister  by  the  Ministerium,  shall  always  be  de- 
termined by  ballot. 

Sec.  6.  No  minister  or  licentiate,  coming  from  a  Foreign  coun- 
try, shall  be  received  as  a  member  of  this  Synod,  until  after  a 
residence  of  two  years  in  this  country,  and  unexceptionable  de- 
portment during  that  time.  Excepting  only,  that  if  an  ordain- 
ed minister  comes  well  recommended  for  piety  and  learning  by 
a  Consistorium,  or  a  number  of  individuals  known  to  the  Minis- 
terium as  orthodox  and  evangelical,  and  if  the  Ministerium  be- 
lieve they  can  safely  confide  in  the  testimonials,  they  may  re- 
ceive him,  after  which  the  vote  for  his  permanent  reception,  as 
a  regular  member,  shall  be  taken,  and  the  case  decided  accor- 
ding to  Sec.  5  of  this  Chapter. 

Sec.  7.  All  business  not  specifically  intrusted  to  the  Minis- 
terium in  this  Constitution,  shall  belong  to  the  Synod. 

Sec.  8.  The  Ministerium  shall  meet  upon  its  own  adjourn- 
ments during  the  Synodicai  Sessions,  after  its  first  convocation 
by  the  President. 

Sec.  9.  The  order  of  business  of  the  Ministerium  may  be  as 
follows  : 

1.  After  the  session  has  been  opened  with  prayer,  the  Presi- 
dent shall  communicate  any  business  which  he  may  have  to  re- 
port or  propose. 

2.  The  licentiates  shall  hand  in  their  licenses,  sermons,  and 
journals,  which  may  be  read  by  the  hcentiates  before  the  whole 
body.  Or  if  want  of  time  renders  this  inconvenient,  committees 
ought  then  to  be  appointed  to  examine  and  report  on  them. 

3.  AppHcants  for  licensure  are  examined. 

4.  After  the  examination  of  the  applicants,  and  of  the  ser- 


43 

mons  and  journals  of  licentiates,  the  applicants  and  licentiates 
may  be  desired  to  withdraw,  and  the  question  of  their  licen- 
sure, or  renewal  of  license,  or  ordination,  be  discussed  and  de- 
cided. 

5.  The  licensure  and  ordination  may  be  performed,  either  in 
the  Ministerium,  or  at  an  appointed  hour  before  a  promiscuous 
assembly. 

().  Promiscuous  matters  relative  to  ministerial  business  may 
then  be  attended  to.  * 

7.  Some  time  shall  then  be  spent  in  conversation  on  pastoral 
experience. 

8.  The  session  closed  as  directed,  Chap.  4,  Sec.  2. 

CHAPTER    XI. 

Examination  and  Licensure  of  Candidates. 

Sec.  1.  The  examination  shall  be  conducted  by  a  committee 
of  two  or  more  ordained  ministers  appointed  for  the  purpose  at 
the  time.  As  these  examinations  may  be  interesting  and  use- 
ful to  the  whole  Ministerium,  it  is  recommended  that  they  be 
performed  before  the  whole  body. 

Sec.  2.  After  the  examination  by  the  committee,  every  mem- 
ber of  the  Ministerium  has  a  right  to  ask  the  applicant  any  ad- 
ditional questions. 

Sec.  3.  The  examination  ought  to  embrace  the  following  sub- 
jects, viz  :  Personal  Piety,  and  the  Motives  of  the  Applicant  for 
seeking  the  Holy  Office ;  the  Greek  and  Hebrew  Scriptures  ;  the 
evidences  of  Christianity ;  Natural  and  Revealed  Theology ; 
Church  History  ;  Pastoral  Theology  ;  the  rules  of  Sennonising  ; 
and  Church  government. 

Sec.  4.  The  ceremony  of  licensure  shall  be  performed  as  fol- 
lows :— An  address  from  the  President  as  prescribed  in  the  Lit- 
mgy ;  he  shall  read  the  duties  and  privileges  of  the  licentiate ; 
and  then  propose  to  him  the  following  questions  : 

1.  Do  you  believe  the  Scriptures  of  the  Old  and  New  Testa- 
ment to  contain  the  Word  of  God,  and  that  it  is  the  only  infalli- 
ble rule  of  faith  and  practice  ? 

2.  Do  you  believe  that  the  fundamental  doctrines  of  the  Word 
of  God  are  taught  in  a  manner  substantially  correct,  in  the  doc- 
trinal articles  of  the  Augsburg  Confession  ? 


44 

3.  Do  you  promise  by  the  aid  of  God,  faithfully  to  perform  all 
the  duties  of  a  Christian  minister,  and  to  submit  yourself  to  the 
rules  of  government  and  discipline  of  this  body,  so  long  as  you 
remain  a  member  of  it  ? 

Sec.  5.  These  questions  being  answered  in  the  affirmative, 
the  President  offers  up  a  suitable  prayer,  delivers  him  his  li- 
cense and  concludes  with  a  short  address,  as  directed  in  the 
Liturgy. 

Sec.  6.  During  the  recess  of  the  Synod,  Ihe  President  may 
extend  hcense  to  candidates  who  may  come  well  recommended, 
and  whom  on  proper  examination,  he  may  deem  quaHfied  to 
discharge  the  duties  of  the  ministry  :  Provided,  however,  that 
the  extension  of  license  in  such  case  be  not  in  conflict  with  the 
provision  of  Sec.  6,  Chap.  10. 

Sec.  7.  All  licenses  shall  extend  to  the  next  annual  meeting  of 
the  Ministerium,  and  shall  be  renewed  as  a  matter  of  course, 
whether  the  licentiate  be  present  or  not,  unless  satisfactory  rea- 
sons are  known  to  the  Ministerium  which  render  a  renewal  in- 
expedient. And  if,  for  any  reason,  no  meeting  be  held  at  the 
appointed  time,  the  hcenses  granted  by  said  Ministerium  shall 
remain  in  force  until  revoked  at  a  subsequent  meeting. 

Sec.  8.  If  a  hcentiate  after  some  time  of  probation,  does,  in 
the  judgment  of  the  Ministerium,  prove  himself  unqualified  for 
the  duties  of  the  Ministry,  his  hcense  shall  be  withdrawn. 

CHAPTER  XII, 

Ordination. 

Sec.  1.  Whenever  the  Ministerium  has  decided  that  an  in- 
dividual shall  be  ordained,  the  ceremony  may  be  performed  ei- 
ther at  the  time,  by  the  assembled  Ministerium,  or  if  preferred, 
in  the  church  by  which  he  has  been  called,  by  the  Special  Con- 
ference, or  by  a  Committee  appointed  for  the*  purpose  by  the 
President. 

Sec.  2.  The  ceremony  of  ordination,  wherever  performed, 
shall  be  as  follows  : 

1.  A  sermon  shall  be  preached  by  a  person  previously  ap- 
pointed, on  the  nature,  duties,  and  responsibilities  of  the  min- 
isterial office, 


45 

2.  The  President  of  the  Ministerium,  or  the  chairman  of  the 
committee  appointed  by  him,  shall  then,  after  a  short  address, 
such  as  is  contained  in  the  Liturgy,  propose  to  the  candidate 
the  following  questions  i 

1.  Do  you  believe  the  Scriptures  of  the  Old  and  New  Testa- 
ment to  contain  the  Word  of  God,  and  that  it  is  the  only  infalli- 
ble rule  of  faith  and  practice  ? 

2.  Do  you  believe  that  the  fundamental  doctrines  of  the  Word 
of  God,  are  taught  in  a  manner  substantially  correct  in  the  doc- 
trinal articles  of  the  Augsburg  Confession  ? 

3.  Do  you  promise,  by  the  aid  of  God,  faithfully  to  perform 
all  the  duties  enjoined  on  you  as  a  Christian  minister,  and  to 
submit  yourself  to  the  rules  of  government  and  discipline  of  this 
body,  so  long  as  you  remain  a  member  of  it? 

4.  Do  you  believe  that  in  seeking  the  duties  of  the  ministeri- 
al office,  you  are  influenced  by  a  sincere  love  to  God  your  Sa- 
viour, and  desire  to  promote  his  glory  in  the  welfare  of  men  ? 

5.  Do  you  promise  faithfully  and  zealously  to  preach  the 
truths  of  the  gospel  of  our  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ,  aa 
contained  in  the  Holy  Scriptures  ? 

Sec.  3.  These  questions  being  answered  in  the  affirmative, 
the  candidate  shall  kneel  down,  when  the  President,  or  presi- 
ding minister  shall  ordain  him  after  the  Apostolical  example, 
by  prayer  and  the  laying  on  of  the  hands  of  the  Ministry,  i.  e. 
Presbytery.  The  candidate  shall  then  rise,  and  the  officiating 
minister,  and  after  him  the  ordained  ministers  present,  shall 
take  him  by  the  right  hand  and  welcome  him  to  take  part  in  the 
ministry  with  them.  The  ceremony  may  then  be  concluded 
by  the  benediction. 

Coticlusion. 

Sec.  4.  This  Constitution  can  be  altered  or  amended  at  any 
annual  meeting  of  the  Synod,  by  consent  of  two-thirds  of  the 
members  present. 


OFFICERS 

OF  THE 

SYNOD  OF  NORTH   CAROLINA. 

Rev.  Samuel  Rothrock,  President. 

"     Jacob  B.  Anthony,  Recording  Secretary. 

"     Joseph  A.  Linn,  Corresponding  Secretary, 
Mr.  M.  Barrier,  Treasurer  of  Synod. 
Col.  J.  M.  Smith,  Treasurer  of  Centenary  Fund. 
Mr.  Daniel  Miller,  Treasurer  of  Seminary  Fund. 

OFFICERS  OF  THE  MISSIONARY  AND  EDUCATION  SOCIETY. 

Rev.  J.  D.  ScHECK,  President. 

"     J.  B.  Anthony,  ll,ce  President. 

'*     W.  G.  Harter,  Secretary. 
Mr.  David  Barringer,  Treasurer. 


The  Forty-first  annual  meeting  of  the  Synod  of  North  Carolina 
will  be  held  at  Organ  Church,  in  Rowan  County,  N.  Carolina, 
commencing  at  10  o'clock,  on  Friday  the  30th  day  of  April, 

1847. 

J.  B.  ANTHONY, 

Secretary, 


6   /^ 


